The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology E-Learning Centre (KNUST E-Learning), in partnership with the UK Institute for Technical Skills and Strategy (UK ITSS), has organised a four-day workshop to enhance the professional development of Technicians and Laboratory Managers of KNUST and its Affiliate institutions. The workshop which was dubbed Continuous Professional Development was held from 13th to 16th May 2024 at the Evans Anfom Auditorium, KNUST.
The workshop was organised to provide specialised training and support to ensure that the selected staff are equipped with modern skills and knowledge, fostering a more efficient and advanced laboratory environment.

In her address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor (Mrs.) Rita Akosua Dickson, applauded the dedication and hard work of the Technicians and Laboratory Managers, referring to them as the "unsung heroes" of the University and emphasising their critical roles. She discussed ongoing talks with UK ITSS about top-up programmes for Technicians and Laboratory Managers to acquire further degrees, which would enhance their career development and prospects. Additionally, she highlighted the plans for the establishment of state-of-the-art laboratories to strengthen KNUST's position as a leading institution in science and technology. She encouraged full participation of the workshop to promote skills and knowledge acquisition and commended the organising team for their efforts.

The Director of KNUST E-Learning Centre, Professor Eric Appau Asante, underscored the importance of the workshop in advancing the skills and knowledge of the University’s Technicians and Laboratory Managers. He emphasised that the partnership with UK ITSS is a significant step toward achieving excellence in the training of technical staff. He commended the participants for their active engagement and encouraged them to apply the skills and knowledge gained to enhance their work. He expressed his gratitude for their participation and reaffirmed KNUST's commitment to providing professional development opportunities for its technical staff.

Dr. Yaw Amo Sarpong, Head of the Centre for Capacity Building and Innovation (CCBI), KNUST, reiterated the Vice-Chancellor's vision to position KNUST as a competitive global research institution. He discussed CCBI's role in strengthening partnerships with other institutions to advance science and technology for sustainable national and global development.

Mr. Anthony Kuufare, Assistant Registrar at the Human Resource Development Division, KNUST, explained the promotion structures and criteria for technicians. He detailed the processes involved and the standards that must be met for eligibility, aiming to clarify aspects for the participants. His presentation provided the participants with a clear understanding of the career progression pathways within the University.
Other topics discussed and facilitators at the workshop included - Personal Learning Needs, Work-Life Balance, and Empowering Yourself for Personal Development (Ms. Ruth Francis); ; Health, Risk, and Safety (Dr. Alhassan Suleman); and Quality Assurance and Ethics-University ethics and workplace romance, addressing ethical concerns and the importance of professional integrity (Professor Edmund Ekuadzi).
The workshop afforded participants to ask questions, make contributions and share ideas in an open forum session.