The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi has urged newly admitted students to disclose any disabilities and comply with mandatory medical screening as part of efforts to maintain an inclusive and supportive campus environment.

Speaking at the 2025/2026 virtual orientation for newly admitted students, Senior Assistant Registrar and the Head of the Office of Student Support and Financial Services (SSFS) under the Directorate of Student Affairs (DoSA) at KNUST, Mrs Theodora Oduro, observes applicants fail to declare their disability status or complete medical screening, limiting the University’s ability to provide appropriate support.

“Everyone must go through the medical screening. Some students come with sickle cell disease and do not tell us.

Others come with diabetes and disclose it,” Mrs. Oduro said at the 2025/2026 orientation for newly admitted students. “KNUST is a family. We have communities that support students with chronic illnesses to ensure they have a smooth academic journey.”

She urged students with disabilities to disclose their conditions upon arrival.

“If you have a disability, please let us know on the day you arrive. Help us to help you,” she added.

Mrs. Oduro said the Medical Director of the University Health Services would hold a dedicated session with students on Sunday to further explain health and support services available on campus.

The virtual orientation, which attracted more than 8,000 participants online, featured presentations from university management and heads of key units, including the Directorate of Student Affairs (DoSA), University Information Technology Services (UITS), the library, and Security Services.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mrs Rita Akosua Dickson encouraged the students to commit themselves to hard work and remain focused throughout their studies.

She reaffirmed KNUST’s commitment to providing an enabling learning environment and urged students to make full use of the University’s support systems.