The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with IBIS-TEK through the Technology Consultancy Centre of the College of Engineering to establish first Technology Park of its kind in the West Africa sub Region. The park would be located at Adako Jachie in Kumasi.
At the brief but colourful meeting, the General Manager of IBIS-TEK, Mr. Eugene Baffoe Bonnie said that, the MoU would undeniably bring venture capitalists to light and promised that the collaboration would not be a nine-day wonder.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. K. K. Adarkwa expressed his excitement about the collaboration and said that; it had been executed at the right time when KNUST is accelerating the developmental agenda of the country. He hoped both partners would play their roles so that their aspirations would be achieved for the mutual benefits.
Following the MoU, a sod cutting Ceremony was held at the site at Adako Jachie the same day to mark the commencement of the construction of the Technology Park.
In a welcome address, Dr. (Mrs.) Peggy Oti Boateng, Director of Technology Consultancy Centre (TCC) said that the ceremony was a manifestation of the long awaited dream of the University. She said that the University through TCC had developed and established a lot of pilot production units and projects in the country which included Suame ITTU, Tema GRATIS project, Sustainable livelihood, vegetable oil extraction projects, among others.
She commended the generosity of the partner, IBIS-TEK for their quest to make the initiative come into fruition.
The Provost of the College of Engineering, Professor Francis Momade added that, what had transpired was a recognition of the competency of the University in achieving the Socio-Economic and Technological advancement goal of the country.
In his presentation, Mr. Bonnie (IBIS-TEK General Manager) touched on the quantum of benefits to be derived from the Park. He said, the park would facilitate greater foundational growth for private companies and firms that enhance technology based industries with research development capabilities and training. He said” we have resources, capabilities, if we diligently pay attention to create our own unique park, we could achieve our aim”. He therefore assured the University that his organisation is committed to assist in making it a reality.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Adarkwa was of the view that when it comes to issues concerning National interest, KNUST has demonstrated its outstanding contributions through its engagement in Teaching and Research activities and collaborations. “We have over the years sought strategic alliances with certain stakeholders in an attempt to consolidate and build upon our profile as a catalyst in the nation’s developmental agenda”, he affirmed.
He also elaborated on the various benefits to be derived from the project. He assured the gathering that, the Park has been designed to assemble Scientists, Technologists and Industrialists in an environment of collaboration for their growth. He added that it would also serve as an incubation centre for the training of students and other professionals from the various sectors of the country’s economy. The project, when finished would bridge the gap between industry and the University. He was proud of the collaboration with the business partner.
Concluding his address, the Vice Chancellor announced to individuals and corporate bodies that have interest in Science and Technology, both local and foreign to ally with the University for the Development of mutually satisfying projects.
The Deputy Minister for Science and Technology, Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boama, who represented the Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. John Dramani Mahama lauded the University and its honest collaborators for their vision. He said “it is worth and significant that KNUST has embarked on such a project before the government.” He therefore emphasised on the need to embrace the emergence of the new technology and called on those at the indigenous sectors to get involve. He pledged the government’s preparedness to support the University as far as the project is concerned.
The Chief of Adako Jachie, Nana Osei Bosompem III who was also present to grace the occasion, said that it was a privilege to have such a significant project sited on his land. He promised to support the partners to make the project a success. He however entreated KNUST and IBIS-TEK to consider his people for employment when the project is completed.
