The College of Art and Built Environment (CABE) at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, has urged first-year students to uphold high standards of conduct, protect university facilities and act as responsible ambassadors of the institution.

The call was made during an orientation session organised for freshers of the College.

The College Facilities Officer, Mr Frederick Oduro, advised students to share responsibility for all university facilities and to use them carefully to preserve them for both present and future users. He said while students have full access to university facilities, irresponsible use could deprive others and increase the cost of maintenance and replacement.

“Reckless use of facilities places a financial burden on the University and, ultimately, on students and their families through increased fees and surcharges,” he said.

Mr Oduro cautioned against vandalism and graffiti, which are prohibited under University regulations, warning that offenders could face sanctions. He encouraged students to channel grievances through appropriate institutional channels rather than resorting to destructive actions.

A Systems Analyst at the College, Mr Clement Adomako, advised students to regularly update their contact details on the student portal to ensure uninterrupted connectivity and timely receipt of official University communications. He added that several computer laboratories are available to support students who do not own personal devices.

Mr Adomako also said about 4,000 security cameras have been installed across the campus as part of efforts to enhance safety and security.

On student connectivity, he said the biometric registration system is integrated with a 5G-enabled SIM card that provides voice and data services for registered students and is renewed monthly. Students were cautioned to keep their login details confidential to prevent security breaches and unauthorised access to the University’s Wi-Fi network.

The College Counsellor, Dr Elizabeth Sarfo, said KNUST places strong emphasis on mental health support through multiple intervention layers designed to assist students academically, emotionally and socially.

Dr Sarfo cautioned students against social distractions and unhealthy relationships that could negatively affect academic progress. She encouraged effective time management, self-awareness and proactive help-seeking, stressing that seeking counselling support should be viewed as a strength rather than a weakness.

She also outlined available financial support systems, including scholarships, bursaries and grants administered by the Student Financial Services Unit.