The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Vivo Energy to strengthen academia-industry collaboration and create opportunities for students to develop innovative solutions to real-world challenges.
A key component of the partnership is the NextGen Energy Innovators Challenge 2026, which will focus on smart energy solutions. In the challenge, students will pitch innovative solutions to real industry problems, gaining practical exposure to industry demands while strengthening their creativity and problem-solving skills.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Dean of the International Programmes Office (IPO), Professor Edmund Ekuadzi, said the agreement formally initiates collaboration between the University and the company and marks the beginning of a structured academia–industry partnership. He noted that the collaboration will be led by the Department of Petroleum Engineering, headed by Dr. Kwame Sarkodie.
“This afternoon we are here to officially sign this MoU to lay the grounds for a partnership where both parties can benefit,” he said.
Leading the delegation from Vivo Energy, Managing Director Christian Li expressed confidence in the partnership, noting that KNUST is the right place to foster such collaboration.
“I believe we are at the right place and there are many more alumni from KNUST at Vivo Energy,” he said.
Mr. Li added that the partnership will create opportunities for students to gain practical experience while contributing innovative ideas to industry challenges.
He said he hopes the collaboration will open doors for more opportunities between the company and the university community.
Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor David Asamoah welcomed the partnership and highlighted the university’s commitment to building strong relationships with industry to better prepare students for the workforce.
“At KNUST we believe in partnership, academia-industry relationships, because we are grooming the students for industry and therefore we want to hear that the students match up to your expectations,” he said.
He assured the company of KNUST’s full support in nurturing the partnership.
“As management, you have our support and commitment to groom this relationship,” he added.
The meeting ended with the formal signing ceremony between KNUST and Vivo Energy.
By: Abena Serwaa Gyamfi
