The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, has disclosed that the government is actively working to reintroduce the University of Local Governance and Development (ULGD) Bill in Parliament.
Speaking on Tuesday, March 12, 2025, during a parliamentary session, the Minister responded to a question from Dr. Fred Kyei Asamoah, MP for Offinso North, affirming that the Bill—set to establish a university in Akomadan, Offinso North Constituency—is poised to become a cornerstone for academic and professional excellence in local governance and development.
University of Local Governance and Development Bill
The ULGD Bill was initially presented to Parliament last year but did not secure approval from the 8th Parliament.
However, with a newly formed Cabinet in place, the government has prioritized its re-submission.
“The Ministry will take swift steps to resubmit the Joint Request for Executive Approval by His Excellency the President of the Republic of Ghana and subsequently re-lay the Bill for Parliamentary Approval as soon as practicable,” Minister Ibrahim assured the House.
Dr. Fred Kyei Asamoah expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, emphasizing its potential to transform the region and create valuable educational opportunities for the community.
In another positive development, Minister Ibrahim addressed concerns raised by Mr. Akwasi Gyamfi Onyina-Acheampong, MP for Kwabre East, regarding the stalled Mamponteng Jubilee Market Project in Kwabre East Constituency.
Originally awarded in 2012 to High Brain Limited for GH¢3,475,685.47, the project began on August 1, 2012, under the supervision of ABP Consult Limited, Kumasi. Though construction halted by December 31, 2012, and the site was abandoned by August 31, 2013, the project currently stands at 55% completion.
The Minister stressed the Ministry’s proactive approach, stating that it is collaborating with the Ministries of Finance, Works and Housing, and Water Resources, alongside the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council and Kwabre East Municipal Assembly, to secure funding and complete the market.
He stressed that this renewed effort will transform the site into a thriving economic hub, revitalizing the local community after years of delay.
By Osumanu Al-Hassan/thenewsbulletin24.com