The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST) has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for students at the second edition of the Directorate of Student Affairs (DoSA) Day, held under the theme, "Promoting a Collective Stakeholder Commitment to Student Affairs."
Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. David Asamoah, underscored the University's conviction that student affairs is a shared responsibility requiring the collective efforts of every member of the university community. He noted that while academic excellence remains central to KNUST's mission, the University must also produce graduates who are ethically grounded, emotionally resilient and socially responsible.
"It reminds us that student affairs is everyone's responsibility. A great university is not measured solely by its infrastructure, research output or global rankings, but by the quality of graduates it produces," he said.
He observed that students today face unprecedented challenges, including mental health concerns, financial pressures, loneliness, career uncertainty and the distractions of an increasingly digital world, stressing that universities must intentionally create environments that enable students to thrive.
He encouraged students to take advantage of the services and opportunities provided by the Directorate of Student Affairs.
"Seek help whenever you need it. Do not suffer in silence. Participate actively in leadership programmes, student organisations, volunteer activities and mentorship opportunities," he advised.
The Director of Student Affairs, Prof. Marian Asantewah Nkansah, said the Directorate exists to support students in every aspect of university life to ensure a rewarding and memorable student experience.
"Our goal is to help students become not just graduates, but well-rounded personalities who will carry our institution's name forward and contribute meaningfully to nation building," she stated.
She explained that DoSA Day was instituted to showcase the Directorate's student-centred initiatives and interventions while deepening stakeholders' appreciation of its role within the University.
"The DoSA Day initiative was instituted to showcase to the entire university community, especially to our students and stakeholders, the initiatives and interventions that we have put in place for our students' well-being," she said.
Chairman of the DoSA Day Planning Committee, Prof. Samuel Asamoah Sakyi, described the celebration as an important platform for celebrating excellence in student support while strengthening collaboration among stakeholders. He encouraged participants to actively engage in the day's activities, build partnerships and become more familiar with the support services available to students.
"Student affairs is not the responsibility of one directorate alone, but the shared responsibility of the entire university community and its stakeholders."
As part of this year's celebration, the Directorate recognised 40 former and current staff members whose dedication and service have significantly contributed to student affairs at KNUST. The honourees included former directors, deans, vice deans, administrative heads, hall masters, senior tutors and other staff members.
Story: Belinda Opoku Danso Photos: Emmanuel Offei
