The Management of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi held a maiden awards ceremony to honour outstanding students who have excelled in various aspects of life on campus. The event dubbed the ‘Vice-Chancellor’s Students’ Excellence Awards 2023 (VCSEA’23) was held at the Great Hall of the University on 2nd August 2023.
The event's theme, "Balancing Acts: Honouring Academics, Innovations and Beyond," highlights the seamless integration of academic excellence, innovation, and character that impacts societies and human history.
According to the Vice-Chancellor, Professor (Mrs.) Rita Akosua Dickson, KNUST has nurtured talents in entrepreneurship, innovation, sports, and leadership over the past seventy (70) years, contributing significantly to global progress. The VCSEA did not only recognise academic achievements but also shine a spotlight on excellence in diverse endeavours.
The Vice-Chancellor emphasised that the VCSEA aims to inspire students to relentlessly pursue greatness and maintain their commitment to excellence. She believes that the ceremony underscores the expectation that exceptional students will harness their knowledge for the betterment of society, making substantial contributions in areas such as research, healthcare, technology, and more.
Giving an overview of the awards, the Chairperson of VCSEA, Professor Marian Asantewah Nkansah, disclosed that a total of one hundred and seventy-three (173) nominations were received, out of which eighty-eight (88) students were nominated for awards in diverse categories. Ultimately, a total of forty-six (46) students were awarded across twelve (12) categories. These categories encompassed; student leadership, academic excellence, sports, debate, cadet, peer counselling, innovation, entrepreneurship, volunteering, creative arts, all-rounded exemplary students, and special awards.
In the special award category, three students - Theophilus Amo Oduro Aboagye, Kwabena Amoako Marfo, and James Michael Mozley Nsafoa were honoured for their heroic intervention in preventing a fellow student from a perceived suicide attempt. Additionally, 43 others were recognised for their outstanding achievements in both academics and sports.
These deserving students were presented with plaques and medals in recognition of their meritorious service to the University and beyond.
Heartfelt gratitude was extended to the Organising Committees, student leaders, and sponsors – Family Dream Consult and Multinec Enterprise – for their pivotal roles in bringing the event to life.
