News of the passing of Dr. Abubakari Sidick Ahmed was received with deep sorrow and a heavy heart. Alhaji, as we affectionately called him, was not only the former Manager of Radio Univers, but also a distinguished media practitioner and mentor, whose legacy continues to resonate across Ghana’s media landscape.
His journey with the University of Ghana began as a Bachelor of Arts student from 1989 to 1993, where he studied French and Arabic. Following his undergraduate studies, he served as a Teaching Assistant in what is now the Department of Modern Languages from 1993 to 1994. He subsequently pursued a Postgraduate Diploma at the then School of Communication Studies between 1994 and 1997.
In 1994, he began volunteering at the then Voice of Legon Radio Station, now known as Radio Univers. From the year 2003, he assumed the role of Manager of Radio Univers, a position in which he left an indelible mark. Under his leadership, Radio Univers evolved into a vibrant training ground for aspiring broadcasters and journalists. With discipline, patience and a deep sense of purpose, he mentored and trained numerous student volunteers, many of whom have since become household names and influential voices within Ghana’s media industry.
Alhaji was a firm believer in learning by doing. He transformed the Station into more than a broadcast platform; it became a laboratory for professional growth, creativity and ethical journalism. The doors to his office were always open to students seeking guidance, encouragement or constructive criticism. Thanks to his mentorship, many young communicators gained confidence and professionalism and a solid foundation in broadcast journalism.
Alhaji was promoted to the rank of Deputy Registrar in 2022, retired in July 2023 and subsequently served in a post-retirement capacity from August 2023 to December 2024, continuing to lend his experience and wisdom to the institution he loved.
In June 2025, a well-deserved dinner was organised in the Great Hall of the University by the Station and former students whom he had trained. This was to recognise his commitment, professionalism and profound impact, and to express their deep respect and gratitude for the careers he had helped to shape.
Despite his passing on Monday, February 16, 2026, his influence endures in the voices on our airwaves, the professionalism of journalists across the nation and the countless lives he inspired.
Alhaji will be remembered for his devotion to mentoring the younger generation of broadcasters and shaping the future of Ghanaian broadcasting.
The University community has lost a colleague, friend and an excellent professional in the media industry; and generations of students, a guiding light.
May his legacy continue to inspire, and may his soul rest in perfect peace.
