The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST) has conducted a Safe Arrival Walk to assess arrangements for receiving newly admitted students and identify concerns requiring immediate attention.
Led by the Director of Student Affairs, Professor Marian Asantewah Nkansah, the exercise covered halls of residence, the Royal Parade Grounds and other areas where freshers, parents and guardians gathered during the reopening period.
Prof. Nkansah said the walk allowed university officials to welcome students and assess how arrival arrangements were working.
“We want to have a first-hand experience of what is going on in terms of interactions with parents, the wards and other stakeholders, and also to check the smoothness or otherwise of the systems we have put in place to ensure safe arrival,” she said.
She said the assessment would help officials respond promptly to emerging concerns. The Directorate of Student Affairs provides support with accommodation, transport, registration and student welfare.
Orientation sessions would be organised for students in the six traditional halls of residence and off-campus hostels, she said. These would cover the university’s structure and the services available to students.
Prof. Nkansah congratulated the freshers on gaining admission and encouraged them to embrace three principles: connect, communicate and create.
“Choosing KNUST is and will be one of the best decisions of your lifetime. We want you to learn, but we also want you to have a good time. We want you to make friends, discover, thrive and grow in all dimensions,” she said.
She urged students to build relationships with their peers, join clubs and engage with lecturers and other members of the university community. She also encouraged them to raise concerns and seek guidance when facing difficulties.
“Talk to someone about your burning questions and struggles and come to the Directorate of Student Affairs when in doubt. The University has facilities to support you. Do not suffer in silence,” she advised.
She urged students to take their academic work seriously, observe university rules and remain focused on their aspirations.
The Safe Arrival initiative brings together hall administrators, security personnel, police, student leaders, the Students’ Representative Council (SRC), the Graduate Students’ Association of Ghana (GRASAG), volunteers, cadets, peer counsellors, fire service personnel and the University Hospital team.
Story: Belinda Opoku Danso Photos: Edwin Opoku Agyemang
