The Vice-Chancellor of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST), Professor (Mrs.) Rita Akosua Dickson has officially inaugurated the Chairperson and new members of Council of Convocation at the Council Chamber of the University.
The 10-member Council of Convocation, chaired by Professor Hannah Vivian Osei, includes, Prof. Mohamed Mutocheluh, Prof. Frimpong Twum, Prof. (Mrs) Akosua Mawuse Amankwah, Prof. (Mrs) Perditer Okyere, Mrs. Victoria De-Graft Adjei, Dr. Kwame Mireku, Mr. Foster Sedem Dedume, and Dr. Leonard Delali K. De-Souza as members, with Mr. Charles Owusu-Antwi serving as the clerk.
Chairperson of the Council of Convocation, Professor Hannah Vivian Osei described her election as a call to service and pledged to build a vibrant, informed and influential convocation that contributes to the global reputation of KNUST.
“Convocation is a vital pillar in the governance of this University. It represents institutional memory and the collective voice of academic and professional staff,” she said.
She outlined key pillars of her administration to include engagement, participation, advocacy and welfare, noting that structured dialogue with management, evidence-based policy advocacy and strong welfare support systems would guide the council’s work.
“At the end of our tenure, we want every convocation member to feel informed, connected and heard,” she added, while also indicating plans to revive the State of the University Address and strengthen celebrations such as Convocation Week.
Administering the oath of office, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor (Mrs.) Rita Akosua Dickson commended the outgoing council for the progress achieved and urged the incoming members to ensure continuity, assuring them of management’s full support.
“As management, we are together with you on this journey,” she said, emphasising the council’s gatekeeping and safeguarding role, as well as the importance of continuous feedback from convocation members to drive quality improvement.
She further described the inauguration as a historic moment, noting that the University has, for the first time, sworn in a woman as Chairperson of Convocation Council.
“This is a proud milestone for the University. May it mark the beginning of many more,” the Vice-Chancellor remarked.
She congratulated the new council members for their willingness to serve and described their commitment as a significant sacrifice in the interest of the University.
Speaking on behalf of the outgoing Chairperson of the Council of Convocation, Prof. Cynthia A. Danquah expressed appreciation to University Management and convocation members for the confidence reposed in the council over the past two years.
She said the outgoing council prioritised the welfare of members and strengthened engagement through the creation of dedicated committees, the organisation of welfare and governance-focused webinars, networking games, and the establishment of a Mutual Health Fund, which has received positive feedback from members.
She added that the council also deepened participatory governance by hosting a first-ever webinar for Pro Vice-Chancellor aspirants to present their visions, while pursuing initiatives in education, property acquisition and streamlined member subscriptions.
By: Abigail Ofori
