As part of activities marking the 75th anniversary of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST), Chancellor Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has launched a commemorative book documenting the University's contributions to Ghana's development over the past seven and a half decades.
The book, titled: "70 Years of Global Impact: A New Age for Renewed Focus 1951-202" launch was one of the highlights of the anniversary celebrations, held under the theme "From Excellence to Eminence: 75 Years of KNUST." The publication chronicles key milestones in the University's history, celebrates distinguished alumni, documents transformative achievements and showcases KNUST's impact on national and global development.
Launching the book, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II described the publication as an important contribution to preserving the University's history and documenting its impact on society.
He said the commemorative volume traces KNUST's evolution over the decades and highlights its contributions to the development of Ghana, Africa and the wider world, while celebrating the achievements of alumni, stakeholders and institutions associated with the University.
“This book chronicles a rich history and traces the remarkable transformations that the University has undergone over the decades. It showcases the significant contributions KNUST has made to the development of Ghana, Africa, and the global community. The book also celebrates the achievements of alumni, stakeholders, and institutions whose accomplishments have positively impacted the world,” he stated.
The Chancellor commended all those involved in producing the publication, describing it as an important historical record that preserves the University's legacy for future generations.
“I commend all those who contributed to the production of this important book. Through your efforts, the history of KNUST in its first 75 years has been documented and preserved for posterity. Even as we look forward to the next 75 years and beyond, this publication ensures that future generations will understand and appreciate the foundation upon which the University continues to build,” he said.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II expressed confidence that the publication would serve as a valuable resource for scholars, students, alumni, researchers and future leaders of the University.
Speaking on the origins of the project, former Vice-Chancellor and Chairperson of the Anniversary Planning Committee, Professor William Otoo Ellis, said the idea emerged during an official visit to the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, where he received a publication documenting the institution's contribution to Israel's economy and national development.
"That experience prompted a simple but important question: How do we tell the KNUST story? How do we adequately document the impact of an institution that has shaped lives, advanced knowledge, and contributed significantly to national development?" he recounted.
Professor Ellis said the initiative was driven by the conviction that Ghana's development story cannot be fully told without acknowledging KNUST's role in shaping the nation's progress.
"Across education, healthcare, engineering, agriculture, business, science, technology, governance, creative arts, and industry, the imprint of KNUST is evident. It became necessary to document not only the history of the University but also its contribution to the development of Ghana and beyond," he said.
According to him, the publication serves as a lasting record of KNUST's journey, celebrating achievements, recognising individuals who have contributed to its growth and preserving its legacy for future generations.
Chairman of the Book Committee, Mr. Elliot Agyare, provided insight into the extensive process behind the publication.
He explained that, unlike a conventional institutional history, the book examines KNUST through the lens of impact, highlighting how the University has influenced national development and transformed lives over the years.
"Anniversary celebrations eventually come to an end, speeches are forgotten, and programmes conclude. But books endure. Our purpose was simple: to preserve memory, capture a legacy, and ensure that future generations will have a record of what this great institution has meant to Ghana, Africa, and the world," he stated.
Mr. Agyare described the publication as a bridge between generations, connecting the University's founders with future students, researchers and leaders. He said the book traces the vision that gave birth to KNUST, celebrates notable achievements, highlights distinguished alumni and honours the many individuals whose sacrifices and dedication have sustained the institution over the decades.
He also acknowledged the contributions of members of the Book Committee, researchers, designers, editors, alumni and staff whose commitment made the publication possible.
