KNUST Staffing Crisis: Asantehene Calls for Urgent Government Action to Secure Ghana's Educational Excellence
The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) stands at a critical juncture as Ghana's premier institution of higher learning faces a staffing shortage that threatens its ability to nurture the next generation of innovators and business leaders.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene and Chancellor of KNUST, delivered a compelling appeal to the government during the university's 59th Congregation ceremony, where an impressive 17,132 graduates received their degrees, including 14,764 undergraduates and 2,338 postgraduate students.
The Numbers Tell the Story
A recent five-year cyclical review by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) revealed concerning lecturer-student ratios that are straining the university's capacity to deliver world-class education. This data-driven assessment highlights the urgent need for strategic investment in human capital to maintain Ghana's competitive edge in the global knowledge economy.
"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," the Asantehene emphasized, linking educational excellence directly to national economic prosperity.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Stake
The staffing challenge comes at a time when KNUST continues to demonstrate its commitment to research excellence and innovation. Vice-Chancellor Prof. Rita Akosua Dickson announced that the university awarded over GH¢1.5 million to 29 senior members from the KNUST research fund, bringing total research grants since 2016 to an impressive GH¢7 million.
Additionally, faculty members secured external grants totaling $8.9 million, showcasing the university's ability to attract international investment in Ghana's research capabilities.
Government Investment Shows Promise
In a positive development that aligns with Ghana's commitment to educational infrastructure, the government has released GH¢46 million to complete the long-awaited KNUST Teaching Hospital, with an additional $38 million allocated for equipment. The government has also committed $10 million for new lecture theatres, demonstrating tangible support for educational advancement.
Addressing Youth Employment Through Education
The Asantehene's call extends beyond staffing to address youth unemployment, a critical economic challenge facing Ghana. "Unemployment among the youth is a national concern, and I, therefore, call on President John Dramani Mahama to take keen interest in this critical issue," he stated, connecting educational quality directly to job creation and economic growth.
Protecting Educational Assets
In a firm stance on institutional integrity, the Asantehene issued a clear warning against land encroachment, protecting KNUST's valuable assets for future generations. "Any encroachment upon KNUST land will not be tolerated," he declared, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding educational infrastructure as a foundation for national development.
Building Tomorrow's Leaders
As graduates enter Ghana's dynamic economy, the Asantehene's message resonated with themes of innovation and integrity: "Let innovation guide them, ideas and integrity should anchor their actions and compassion shape their leadership."
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dickson reinforced this entrepreneurial spirit, advising graduates not to underestimate "the power of starting small," encouraging resilience and perseverance in building Ghana's economic future.
The ceremony, graced by Vice-President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, celebrated not only academic achievement but also honored distinguished personalities with honorary doctorate degrees and special awards, recognizing excellence across Ghana's business and academic communities.
As Ghana positions itself as a leader in West African innovation and business development, the call for enhanced support to KNUST represents a strategic investment in the country's human capital and economic competitiveness on the global stage.