The Vice-Chancellor of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Professor (Mrs.) Rita Akosua Dickson, has underscored the need for partnerships between European and African institutions to create meaningful and positive societal impact. She made the remarks at the ongoing 7th European-African Academic and Scientific Cooperation Conference at the University of Teramo, Italy, taking place from October 29 to 31, 2025.
Speaking on the sub-theme “Expectations of the African Academic Community,” Professor Dickson emphasized that strong, mutually beneficial partnerships between Europe and Africa can yield transformative outcomes.
She noted that with Africa accounting for about 18 percent of the global population and boasting a predominantly youthful demographic, expanding access to quality, impactful education through such collaborations is essential.
“Without partnerships, humanity suffers,” she said, concluding her address with a message of optimism: “Hope does not disappoint; it delivers results.”
Professor Dickson also outlined key expectations for future collaborations between African and European institutions. She called for increased scientific partnerships that focus on enhancing impactful science and technology, placing strong emphasis on sustainability, and recognizing and respecting Africa’s cultural values, ethical standards, and indigenous knowledge systems that are relevant to today’s global challenges.
“For partnerships to truly symbolise hope and progress, they must not only integrate African perspectives into research design and methods but also ensure that scientific activities align with local cultural norms and ethical expectations,” she highlighted.
The Vice-Chancellor’s participation in the conference follows the strong existing partnership between KNUST and the University of L’Aquila in Italy. Professor Dickson expressed appreciation to the Rector of the University of L’Aquila, who chaired the session, the Vice-Rector, and Dr. Henry Martin, an alumnus of both institutions, for his instrumental role in initiating the collaboration.
Accompanying the Vice-Chancellor were Mr. Benjamin Boampong Owusu, Registrar; Dr. Charles Nsiah, Finance Officer; and Professor Daniel Y. A. Duah, Dean of the International Programmes Office.
