The family of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings says it will welcome any decision to name the University for Development Studies (UDS) after him.

The comment comes on the back of a visit by a delegation from the university, led by its Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Gabriel Ayum Teye, to the residence of the late Rawlings to commiserate with the family.

“We have quickly checked with her excellency and I have her authority to inform you that the family has never been against this forward-looking suggestion and we would have absolutely no objection if your university can achieve that,” a member of the family and former diplomat, Victor Gbeho, told the group.

The debate about the renaming of the school after the former head of state was reintroduced by President Akufo-Addo when he addressed congregants of UDS at a graduation ceremony in Tamale on November 14.

According to the President, although Mr. Rawlings had earlier declined the offer for the facility to be named after him, he deserves to be praised for his immense role in the establishment of the school. 

But this has been opposed by some individuals and organizations including the Progressive People's Party (PPP), who argue that the former President never wanted the school named after himself and his last wishes must be obeyed.

But responding to the stance by the family, the Vice-Chancellor of the school, Prof. Gabriel Ayum Teye said the support from the family has been noted and any decision by government will be welcomed by the management of the institution.

“We have already given our blessing," he added.