First-year and continuing students at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST), have been urged to make deliberate choices about their studies, personal development and use of university opportunities.
The advice came at the Student Chaplaincy Council’s welcome service for the 2026/2027 academic year.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Christian Agyare, said students’ attitudes towards their studies, time management and planning would influence their ability to fulfil their potential.
He encouraged students who had not secured their preferred programmes to remain committed to their courses and make the most of available opportunities.
Professor Agyare urged students to use the university’s electronic learning resources and innovation and incubation facilities to develop ideas and build networks. He cautioned against excessive use of mobile phones and social media, encouraging students to interact with one another and use technology productively.
He advised those facing academic, financial or personal challenges to seek help from academic tutors, lecturers, peer mentors and the Directorate of Student Affairs.
The Director of Student Affairs, Professor Marian Asantewah Nkansah, urged students to take responsibility for their academic performance, uphold integrity and make informed decisions about their safety and well-being.
“Excellence is not an accident; it is a habit born of daily choices,” she said.
She warned that examination malpractice could lead to suspension or expulsion and urged students to consult examination officers whenever they were uncertain about rules and procedures.
Professor Nkansah also advised students to remain vigilant, avoid dark areas at night, secure their rooms and report suspicious activities. Those experiencing emotional or mental health challenges should seek professional counselling and support from the directorate, she said.
The Global Alumni President, Dr Herman Yobo Addae, called on students to support KNUST’s ambition of moving from excellence to global eminence by developing a culture of giving back to the university.
He urged stronger connections between alumni and current students and encouraged support for initiatives that would contribute to the institution’s development.
The Protestant Chaplain, Rev. Dr Joseph Williams Acheampong, urged students to learn from past experiences without allowing previous successes, failures or disappointments to limit their progress.
“Your real definition is the definition God has placed on you. Your success does not define you. Neither does your failure define you,” he said.
He advised students to take their academic programmes seriously, whether or not they had secured their preferred courses, and remain disciplined in pursuing their ambitions.
The Students’ Representative Council President, Jude Michelle, encouraged students to use the opportunities available at KNUST to develop their skills, explore their interests and build relationships.
She urged them to make productive use of their time by learning from lecturers, alumni and industry leaders and participating in extracurricular activities.
Story: Belinda Opoku Danso Photos: Edwin Opoku-Agyemang
