Skating for Unity; KNUST Students Find Balance On and Off the Court

The skating club at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has become a sanctuary for students, offering a refreshing escape from academics while fostering resilience, camaraderie, and physical fitness. Every Friday and Saturday evening, as the basketball court beside the University Hall grows quiet, it transforms into a lively hub of whirring skateboards and laughter.

Students gather, their roller skates and skateboards gliding rhythmically across the concrete, creating a community where stress fades into exhilaration. A second-year Biotechnology student, Malvin, is among the club’s vibrant members.

Known for his unique touch of tying a handkerchief around the tip of his Nike sneakers while skating, Malvin shares his journey into the sport. “In my first year, a course mate introduced me to skating through his brother.

I tried it, loved it, and bought a skateboard for myself,” he recalls with enthusiasm. The club’s inclusive spirit is evident in its simplicity.

“There’s no registration fee. You just need your kit, courage, and a willingness to persevere,” says Rexford, a senior skater who guides new members.

He explains that joining is as easy as showing up at the court at 4 p.m. on the designated days. Despite the falls that come with the territory, skaters find joy in the shared experience.

“Falling is part of the journey, but when you fall, you get up,” Rexford emphasizes. For many, the skating court is more than a place to learn tricks; it’s a space for growth, connection, and finding balance in both life and academics.

Through its unifying culture and emphasis on determination, the KNUST skating club exemplifies how sports can be a powerful outlet for personal and communal well-being.