The Directorate of Student Affairs (DoSA) at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) recently held an orientation for the inaugural cohort of its DoSA Experience Programme (DoSA-Exp).
This initiative aims to foster collaboration and enhance student-centered service delivery across the university.
The orientation, which brought together DoSA management, Off-campus Senior Tutors, and the newly selected DoSA-Expers, marked the formal launch of the programme.
Held under the theme "Student-Centered Support: Creating a Safe Haven," the event is a strategic effort to improve cross-departmental understanding and the quality of student support services on campus.
Professor Marian Asantewah Nkansah, Director of Student Affairs, outlined the Directorate's mandate, emphasizing the essence of the DoSA Experience Initiative and expectations for participants.
She noted that the orientation is designed to involve senior members not traditionally part of the Directorate in DoSA's operations.
According to Professor Nkansah, participants will volunteer at least 12 hours per semester, assisting with student support, counselling, case handling, and problem-solving.
"The programme is meant to bridge the gap between student needs and the services we provide," she said. "You are not just volunteers; you are frontline ambassadors and potentially part of a future with expanded student service delivery."
Professor Nkansah commended participants for responding to the call to serve and urged them to be observant and responsive, especially during crises.
"Your presence today is a testament to your commitment to shaping a culture of care and service. Together, let us work to create a more inclusive, responsible, and relationship-rich university environment," she added.
Professor Akwasi Aning, Deputy Director for Conduct and Discipline, outlined ongoing welfare initiatives such as food and clothing banks, hygiene essentials, and accommodation support for financially vulnerable students.
He also detailed the protocols for reporting and handling student conduct cases, encouraging open communication among student leaders, colleges, and the administration to address challenges swiftly.
Mrs. Victoria Degraft Agyei, Head of the KNUST Counselling Center, gave an overview of KCC's operations, urging everyone to utilize their services, encourage others to do the same, share their hotlines, and refer cases to them.
Mr. Rabbi Darko also from the KNUST Counselling Centre (KCC) provided guidance on how to identify students in distress and respond appropriately.
He emphasized that staff and volunteers are uniquely positioned to recognize behavioural changes indicating emotional or psychological challenges.
Mr. Darko encouraged participants to engage with such students privately, express concerns directly, and offer non-judgmental support, fostering trust for students to open up and receive help.
Professor Amos Abanyie, Deputy Director for Housing and Welfare, praised participants for embracing their roles and supporting the initiative, describing them as ambassadors who will help instill the right values to assist students.
Professor Abanyie further noted that the program not only equips volunteers to serve but also prepares them for future roles.
