Around it is fine, but you can use basic hardware like some 2x4s, screws, and a piece of plywood. Depending on the ceiling setup, you can skirt the edges of the ductwork and put the plywood above the drop ceiling, but just under the duct work. I wouldn't get overly fancy with the gear, but just use solid connections that you can put in place out of wood, then, if anything is exposed, paint it to match the room/space appropriately. This should all be possible for about $20 or so in material. Might take a couple of hours to accomplish.