Professor Jerry John Kponyo has pledged to strengthen the research capacity of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) by building robust institutional structures and ensuring effective resource allocation to support research excellence.

He made this known during a brief but meaningful handing-over ceremony at the Office of Grants and Research (OGR), where he officially assumed duty as Director.

The event brought together staff of the Office, college research managers, and the Registrar to witness the transition of leadership from Professor Philip Antwi-Agyei to Professor Kponyo.

Professor Kponyo expressed gratitude for the confidence reposed in him and reaffirmed his commitment to consolidating the gains made under his predecessor.

He underscored his determination to make OGR an engine for advancing KNUST’s vision as a research-intensive university through enhanced partnerships, improved infrastructure, and stronger support systems for grant acquisition and project management.

In recognition of his outstanding leadership and service, staff of OGR presented Professor Antwi-Agyei with a citation highlighting his key achievements, including the introduction of proposal-writing retreats, the establishment of the KNUST Research Week and Scientific Conference, and other initiatives that significantly advanced the university’s research agenda.

Professor Antwi-Agyei expressed appreciation to the staff for their teamwork and encouraged them to extend the same level of dedication to the new Director.