The College of Humanities and Social Sciences at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST) has launched a Leadership Academy in partnership with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), aimed at training students in ethical and sustainable leadership.

The initiative, themed “Leading with purpose: forging sustainable development”, seeks to develop leaders capable of driving economic transformation through ethics, sustainability, digital skills and corporate governance.

Pro Vice-Chancellor, Professor David Asamoah, said the programme reflects a shared commitment among partners, including ACCA and the Business and Financial Times, to national development.

He said 52 students selected from 15 departments were chosen based on academic performance and gender balance.

“I see a reflection of the Ghana we aspire to build – where excellence is rewarded, and diverse perspectives come together to solve complex problems,” he said.

He added that participants would receive training in soft and digital skills, ethical leadership, communication, critical thinking, time management, project management and public speaking, alongside mentorship and industry exposure.

Professor Charles Ofosu Marfo, Provost of the College, said the academy aims to bridge the gap between academic training and societal impact.

“We are pursuing purposeful leadership,” he said, adding that Ghana’s development depends on leaders who “can think critically, act ethically and lead with integrity.”

He described the programme as rigorous and holistic, preparing students to navigate complex challenges and take up leadership roles across sectors.

ACCA's Cluster Head for West and Central Africa, Williams Norman, said the academy comes at a time when Ghana is seeking to strengthen human capital amid economic pressures and youth unemployment.

He said the programme would provide internships and structured access to industry experts to improve students’ readiness for the workplace.

Kofi Owusu Bempah, a partner in the initiative, urged students to take ownership of their development and build resilience through consistent effort.

Godwin Quaye said the partnership would connect classroom learning to real-world opportunities, focusing on transparency, industry dynamics and practical skills.

Professor Kabila Abass, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, said the university’s faculties would support the academy with expertise, resources and mentorship to train leaders with integrity and vision.

Student leader Gabriel Asiedu said leadership requires responsibility and mentorship, and urged participants to take advantage of the opportunity.