The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology has held its 59th Special Congregation, celebrating the academic achievements of thousands of students across various disciplines. The ceremony graduated a total of 1,533 graduands graduated in the first session, including 1,414 from the College of Health Sciences and 119 from the College of Art and Built Environment. The
The Director of the Institute of Distance Learning, Professor Anthony Andrews highlighted the university’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation and societal impact.He emphasized the importance of perseverance, resilience, and the transformative power of education, urging graduates to remain committed to using their knowledge to drive positive change in society.
The ceremony also spotlighted key research and innovation milestones. Among them was a groundbreaking chocolate production project by the Department of Food Science and Technology, which utilizes okra extract as an alternative to imported emulsifiers. The initiative is expected to strengthen Ghana’s positioning on global food science innovation.
“This project further strengthens academic industry collaboration by applying research to practical industry demands. On the global front, the project positions Ghana not only as a cocoa power house but also as a leader in food science innovation“.
Professor Andrews also announced the commissioning of the Asenso Boakye Infrastructure Research Hub ,a multi-disciplinary facility aimed at promoting evidence-based policy and sustainable infrastructure development in Ghana.
The Institute of Distance Learning was also commended for its Professional Add-on Seminar Series, which attracted 9,233 participants in a two-day virtual session designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry practice.
“The professional add on seminar series is designed to expose students to real world industry practice, complement classroom learning with practical career insights and connect students with professionals“
Efforts to promote inclusivity were highlighted through initiatives such as the She Power Summit ,organized by the department of petroleum engineering in partnership with Vivo Energy, which focuses on empowering women in engineering and the energy sector.
KNUST further celebrated the 25th anniversary of its Herbal Medicine programme, recognizing its contribution to advancing scientific research into traditional medicine and ensuring safe herbal practices.
Addressing the graduating class, Professor Andrews encouraged students to build on the foundation of their education and strive to make meaningful contributions to society. Graduates were reminded that education remains a powerful tool for empowerment and transformation.
“Education remains the most reliable path to empowerment, liberation from wants and deprivation and to the brighter more purposeful future”.
Story by Jefferson Aglah