KNUST Expansion Drive: Asantehene Champions University Investment for Ghana's Future
Ghana's premier technology university stands at a critical juncture as the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, makes a compelling case for increased government investment in the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). Speaking at the university's 59th Congregation, the traditional leader highlighted a strategic opportunity to strengthen Ghana's educational infrastructure and drive economic growth.
Investment Opportunity in Higher Education
The call for additional financial clearance comes as KNUST demonstrates remarkable growth, graduating 17,132 students this year alone, including 14,764 undergraduates and 2,338 postgraduate students. However, a recent Ghana Tertiary Education Commission review revealed an unfavorable lecturer-student ratio that presents both challenges and opportunities for strategic investment.
"I call on the government to treat this matter with urgency and as a moral obligation, for it is not merely a question of numbers but of the very future of our youth and the nation," emphasized Otumfuo Osei Tutu, who serves as the university's Chancellor.
Building Innovation Capacity
The Asantehene's vision extends beyond mere staffing numbers to encompass Ghana's broader economic transformation. He stressed that universities must provide "close guidance of mentorship that moulded leaders, innovators and custodians of Ghana's destiny" to prepare graduates for a rapidly changing global economy.
This perspective aligns with Ghana's growing reputation as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship in West Africa, where quality higher education serves as a cornerstone for economic diversification and technological advancement.
Research Excellence and Economic Impact
KNUST's commitment to impactful research demonstrates significant returns on investment. Vice-Chancellor Prof. Rita Akosua Dickson revealed that the university has awarded over GH¢7 million in research grants since 2016, with faculty members securing an additional $8.9 million in external funding.
This year alone, 29 senior members received over GH¢1.5 million from the KNUST research fund, showcasing the institution's potential to drive innovation and contribute to Ghana's knowledge economy.
Infrastructure Development Progress
The government has already demonstrated commitment to KNUST's growth with significant infrastructure investments. Recent allocations include GH¢46 million for completing the long-awaited KNUST Teaching Hospital, plus an additional $38 million for equipment and $10 million for new lecture theatres.
These investments represent a strategic approach to building Ghana's healthcare and educational capacity, positioning the country as a regional leader in medical education and research.
Addressing Youth Employment Through Education
The Asantehene directly linked university investment to youth employment, calling on President John Dramani Mahama to prioritize this critical issue. Quality higher education serves as a pathway to economic empowerment and entrepreneurship, particularly important for Ghana's growing diaspora connections and international business opportunities.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dickson reinforced this message, advising graduates not to "underestimate the power of starting small" while emphasizing resilience and persistence in building successful careers.
Protecting Educational Assets
Demonstrating strong governance principles, the Asantehene issued clear warnings against land encroachment, protecting KNUST's valuable assets for future generations. This commitment to transparency and institutional protection aligns with best practices in educational governance and sustainable development.
As Ghana continues its economic transformation journey, strategic investments in institutions like KNUST represent opportunities to build lasting competitive advantages in the global knowledge economy. The Asantehene's call for increased support reflects a broader vision of Ghana as a leader in African innovation and educational excellence.