The leadership of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi's Students’ Representative Council (SRC) has been charged to build a lasting legacy rooted in unity, integrity, and progress during their annual Executive and Parliamentary Retreat held at the Nyansapo Eco Resort in Moree, Cape Coast.
The three-day retreat, which began on May 1, 2025, saw student leaders engage in a blend of reflection, leadership development, and cultural immersion, including visits to Elmina Castle, Hans Cottage, and Kakum National Park.
A central theme of the retreat was reconciliation and cohesion within the student leadership structure. Rt. Hon. Appiah Kyei Patrick, Speaker of the SRC Parliament, addressed tensions between the Executive and Parliamentary arms of the SRC and called for unity moving forward.
“I am here to apologize to anyone I have wronged during the organization and coordination of this trip, and in the execution of my duties in Parliament,” he said. “I am happy that we have all been brought under the umbrella of unity and I hope that, once again, this united front shall consider the interest of students.”
However, the defining moment of the gathering came through powerful messages on legacy, purpose, and collaborative leadership.
The SRC President, Kane Nana Francis reminded participants of the timeless wisdom of Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah: “We face neither east nor west, we face forward.”
The President emphasized the importance of unity within the student front, saying, “When we disagree, we must repair. We must be unbroken. And we must be united… Let’s bring our individual ideas together to serve the interests of our students.”
Director of Student Affairs, Prof. Marian Asantewah Nkansah, in a goodwill message, commended the student leadership for their dedication and encouraged them to use the retreat to deepen dialogue and build stronger relationships.
“Your contributions are invaluable… and I’m confident this retreat will equip you with renewed energy and a stronger sense of purpose,” she said.
Dr. Kwasi Adu-Boahen Opare, Senior Lecturer and Senior Tutor, challenged participants to think beyond titles and terms of office in his keynote presentation titled “The Legacy We Leave: Leadership That Lasts.”
“Student leadership is a season. It begins with a vote or appointment and it ends. But what doesn’t end is the impact of what you did with that opportunity,” he stated.
Drawing from the SRC Constitution, Dr. Opare reminded leaders that their mandate is to serve students and foster unity, cultural growth, academic support, and mutual respect. He stressed the importance of building bridges, leading people and not just processes and creating cultures of consultation and collaboration.
