The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST) has graduated a total of 2,657 undergraduate students at the 59th special congregation ceremony, with a strong emphasis on research, innovation, and industry collaboration as pillars of its academic excellence.
Speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Director of the Institute of Distance Learning (IDL), Professor Anthony Andrews, highlighted the university’s growing impact in addressing societal challenges through applied research and the use of local resources.
He noted that research continues to take centre stage in the university’s activities, positioning KNUST as a hub for innovation and practical solutions to national development issues.
He highlighted one of the groundbreaking projects by researchers from the Department of Food Science and Technology, who are developing chocolate using okra as a natural alternative ingredient.
He added that the initiative, led by Professor Jacob K. Agbenorhevi, has already produced promising results, particularly for milk chocolate, and forms part of a broader international collaboration aimed at promoting sustainable food systems.
According to Prof. Andrews, such innovations demonstrate the university’s commitment to reducing reliance on imported raw materials while promoting local industry.
“By exploring locally sourced alternatives, the university is reducing reliance on imports while promoting sustainability,” the statement noted.
He announced the establishment of the Asenso-Boakye Research Hub, a research and innovation hub focused on infrastructure development and policy engagement.
The hub is expected to strengthen evidence-based decision-making and bridge the gap between research, financing, and policy implementation.
In further efforts to enhance student preparedness for the job market, he stated that KNUST has intensified industry engagement through initiatives such as its Professional Seminar Series. He revealed that the programme, which brought together experienced industry players, has so far engaged over 5,000 students, offering practical insights and career guidance.
“We are committed to producing graduates who are not only academically excellent but professionally prepared for today’s job market,” he added.
Prof. Andrews underscored the university’s commitment to inclusivity, particularly in promoting women’s participation in engineering and energy-related fields. Through partnerships and targeted programmes, KNUST continues to create opportunities for mentorship, networking, and career development for female students.
In celebrating institutional milestones, he noted that the university marked 25 years of advancing herbal medicine education and research, recognising the contributions of pioneering scholars who laid the foundation for the programme.
He acknowledged the achievement of the Faculty of Law, which has qualified for the international rounds of a prestigious moot court competition to be held in Washington, D.C., USA.
Addressing the graduating class, the Director urged them to uphold integrity and use their education as a tool for societal impact.
“Education remains the most reliable path to empowerment and a better future ... and the true measure of education lies in the impact you make in the lives of others,” she said.
He encouraged the graduates to carry forward the values instilled in them and contribute meaningfully to national and global development.
The 59th Special Congregation is being held across seven sessions, with a total of 8,322 graduands expected to be awarded various qualifications. This includes 424 diploma graduates, 2,657 undergraduate students, and 5,241 postgraduate students.
