The Institute of Distance Learning (IDL) of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has rolled out its first set of professional add-on certificate courses: Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) and Drone Technology, offered at highly discounted rates to enrich students’ professional profiles and enhance employability.
The announcement was made during the 59th Congregation Ceremony at the Great Hall.
Addressing the ceremony on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor (Mrs.) Rita Akosua Dickson, the Director of IDL, Prof. Anthony Andrews, said the professional courses form part of IDL’s renewed drive to complement academic degrees with relevant industry-focused skills that meet evolving workforce demands.
More professional courses, he noted, will be added in the coming months.
A major highlight of the event was the official launch of “IDLPulse,” the Institute’s new newsletter showcasing institutional activities, success stories of students and alumni, and achievements across its learning centres.
The maiden annual edition was unveiled during the ceremony, with subsequent editions to be published every semester.
Prof. Andrews highlighted IDL’s continued expansion and facility upgrades across its nationwide learning centres.
In alignment with the University’s Go Green agenda, the Institute has installed solar photovoltaic systems valued at GHS 3.7 million across centres in Tamale, Takoradi, and Kwabenya to reduce reliance on the national grid and lower carbon emissions.
Prof. Andrews again highlighted the new Guest Lecture Series, with two successful webinars on “Soft Skills for Career Acceleration” and “Entrepreneurship and Career Self-Reliance,” attracting enthusiastic participation from students and staff.
The Institute also strengthened its collaboration with the National Water Institute at the University of Abomey-Calavi, Benin, focusing on water, sanitation, digital manuals, training, and e-learning innovation.
This year, a total of 2,679 students are walking across the stage at the 59th Congregation: 1,408 men and 1,271 women.
Among them are 217 who earned First Class honours. Another 1,006 graduands secured Second Class Upper Division, while 1,089 students completed their programmes with Second Class Lower Division honours. 343 students graduate with a Pass, and 24 Diploma candidates distinguished themselves with outstanding performance, earning Distinction.
Prof. Andrews encouraged graduates to continue their academic progression at KNUST, announcing that the sale of application forms for Diploma, Undergraduate (Top-Up), and Postgraduate programmes remains open, with a deadline extension to allow this year’s graduates to take advantage of the opportunity.
He emphasised the flexibility and relevance of IDL’s one-year master’s programmes in sharpening analytical and problem-solving skills.
Addressing the graduands directly, Prof. Andrews urged them to make lifelong learning a habit, build professional networks, and let their KNUST education reflect through innovation and excellence.
“You carry not just a degree, but the legacy of our great institution,” he said. “Go forth with confidence, resilience, and purpose.”
