Asantehene praises KNUST’s new act, 10-year strategic plan at 59th graduation ceremony

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has commended the Governing Council of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) for the successful modernization of the institution’s legislative framework, describing it as a critical step toward meeting contemporary academic demands.

Speaking at the university’s 59th Congregation held at the Great Hall, the Chancellor lauded the replacement of the 60-year-old statute with a new, forward-looking act. He urged the Council to prioritize the swift implementation of policies and programs under the new legal framework.

Otumfuo also praised the Council for initiating a comprehensive ten-year strategic plan spanning 2026 to 2035, expressing confidence that the roadmap would solidify KNUST’s reputation as a global hub for excellence.

“I am certain that the implementation of this ten-year strategic plan will position this university as a hallmark of technology, research, and innovation,” the Asantehene stated.

Addressing university leadership, he called on the Governing Council and Management to remain responsive to critical infrastructural needs. He highlighted strategic partnerships with institutions that can transform human capital and physical infrastructure, as well as the continuous refinement of administrative processes to align with international best practices, as key areas for growth.

Outgoing Vice Chancellor Prof. Rita Akosua Dickson expressed gratitude to the Asantehene for his steadfast guidance throughout her tenure, noting that his consistent physical presence at every congregation underscored his commitment to the institution.

Prof. Dickson, whose term concludes on July 31, 2026, credited the university’s recent “massive achievements” in infrastructure and academic development to the support provided by the Asantehene and the Governing Council.

A total of 8,377 students graduated during the ceremony, with postgraduate degrees accounting for 5,241 (63.9%) and first degrees totaling 3,136 (36.1%). Among the graduates were 71 PhD recipients, of which 20 were female.

Highlighting the university’s growing global influence, Prof. Dickson announced that KNUST faculties had secured $2.3 million in international grants through highly competitive bidding processes, further cementing the institution’s status as a research powerhouse.