For three decades, one man has stood behind the camera, preserving the defining moments of KNUST for generations to remember.

Jonathan Gyepi-Attee, a Principal Technician at the University Relations Office, has been more than a photographer. He has been a custodian of memory, a storyteller, and a witness to history.

His journey with photography began with passion. “After O’level I had the zeal I could do photography,” he recalls.

Mr. Gyepi-Attee was trained at Tematech, Sunshine Photo Lab, and Colorama Photo Lab, where he honed his skills in printing and large-format work. It was during this time that his path crossed with KNUST, unknowingly setting the stage for a lifetime of service.

In 1995, when the university’s photographer was retiring, Mr. William Osekre, then Head of the Unit, encouraged him to apply.

“He told me I should give it a try because I was already handling a lot of KNUST jobs at the photo lab. I applied, and on 1st August 1995, I started work here as a university photographer,” he recalls with pride.

At the time, photographers worked under the University Library, handling tasks like microfilming and reproduction long before digital scanners became commonplace.
“We used cameras to reproduce documents for storage. You could only read them with a microfilm reader,” he explained.

Over the years, Mr. Gyepi-Attee has photographed Chancellors, Vice-Chancellors, visiting dignitaries, global icons, Congregations, and everyday campus life.

Beyond capturing these moments, he has also supervised the accreditation of photographers during KNUST’s major events, particularly Congregations, ensuring that the university’s image and standards are professionally represented.

His proudest moments include capturing the historic inauguration of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II as Chancellor of KNUST, a day when the Asantehene himself acknowledged his work. He has also photographed King Charles III, then Prince of Wales, and countless distinguished state visitors.

“Each time when we take a photograph, we go to take a photograph that will tell a story, not just a photo. Anybody should be able to look at it and know what was going on,” he reflects.

Though technology has transformed photography, Mr. Gyepi-Attee embraces both the old and the new. From the days of film and theory-driven shots to today’s digital ease, he appreciates the adventurous spirit of younger photographers while cherishing the rigor of his early years.

But beyond technology, it is the relationships and recognition that have made his career meaningful.

“Each time visitors come around and return with such wonderful comments about my pictures, these are all motivations. Even the Vice-Chancellors have always made me feel important. And across campus, everyone knows me, with different nicknames like ‘OPHOTO’ and slogans!” he says with a smile.

Today, his legacy is etched in the very heart of KNUST. An estimated 95% of the photographs displayed in the KNUST Museum are his work, a testament to his lasting impact.

As he looks back on three decades of dedication, Mr. Gyepi-Attee hopes to be remembered not just as a photographer, but as a storyteller who gave KNUST a visual memory of its growth, achievements, and people.

On this World Photography Day, KNUST celebrates Jonathan Gyepi-Attee, the man behind the lens, who continues to capture the spirit of the university with every click.