An atmosphere of gratitude, smiles and heartfelt reflection filled the homes of retired staff as Management of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST) led by Vice-Chancellor Professor (Mrs.) Rita Akosua Dickson, continued its outreach visits.

One retiree, Major Ahialey Prosper, described the visit as historic and deeply personal.

“This visit reminds me of the Zacchaeus story, today, the Lord is in my house,” he said, visibly moved. “Considering your large student population and the increasing number of staff, for you to find time out of your busy schedule to visit someone who retired almost fifteen years ago is powerful. I will forever cherish this moment.”

Reflecting on developments at the University since his retirement, Major Ahialey expressed pride in KNUST’s growth and global standing.

“As we sit back and observe the developments of the school, how beautiful it has become and the academic strides being achieved, we feel proud. Your achievements are among the best anywhere,” he remarked. “The sky is the limit. Continue the good work.”

He commended the leadership for maintaining engagement with retirees and encouraged other organisations to emulate the initiative.

Another retiree, Dr. Emmanuel Azumah, described the visit as a pleasant surprise.

“After all these years, for you to come and see how we are doing, I don’t know how to describe it, thank you for this unexpected visit,” he said.

Dr. Azumah said the day would remain significant in his family’s history, adding that the visit affirmed that his years of sacrifice and dedication had not been forgotten.

“Thank you for remembering what we did,” he shared. “This is something my family will remember on this significant day in our home.”

At another residence, Mr. Kingsley Adu thanked Management for not forgetting retired staff and urged leadership to continue its work at GUSSS and support the Board in achieving its mandate.

Mr. Eric Nana Bamfi-Adomako also expressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor and Management for their efforts in making the University “even bigger and better” than they left it.

Mr. Kwaku Sampeney conveyed similar sentiments.

“After years of retirement, it is an honour for a big University like KNUST to think of us and visit us physically,” he said.

Responding to the remarks, Professor Dickson emphasised that the University’s progress is built on the sacrifices of those who served before.

“If the University has come this far in 75 years, it is because of people like you. There is no way the history of this University can be written without your name in it. We will never forget you,” she assured.

Professor Dickson reaffirmed that retired staff remain part of the University’s story and legacy. She presented them with copies of the new governing Act 2025, the 10-year strategic plan (2K35), University diaries, calendars and other souvenirs as tokens of appreciation.

“We are not done with you,” the Vice-Chancellor said warmly. “You remain part of this University, and we will continue to seek your counsel. KNUST says Ayekoo!”

She said the visits form part of the University’s longstanding tradition of engaging retired staff, listening to their feedback, sharing institutional updates and offering prayers for their continued good health, strength and peace.