The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST), has launched the 2026 Graduate Exhibition and Fashion Show of the Department of Industrial Art, reaffirming its commitment to producing industry-ready graduates equipped with creativity, technical expertise and entrepreneurial skills.
Launching the event on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, the Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Professor Samuel Asare-Nkansah, described the exhibition as a significant milestone for the Department of Industrial Art and a reflection of KNUST's vision of producing agile, entrepreneurial and industry-ready graduates.
He commended the Department for sustaining the vision behind the introduction of the Fashion Design programme nine years ago, noting that it continues to produce graduates whose creativity and innovation are expanding the frontiers of Ghana's fashion and creative industries.
Prof. Asare-Nkansah said the theme, "Becoming: From Excellence to Eminence," captures the journey of growth, transformation and continuous improvement that students experience throughout their university education.
"'Becoming' is about evolving into one's full potential. It reflects a commitment to excellence, transformation and impact while rejecting mediocrity and stagnation," he said.
He said the programme has enabled students to reinterpret Ghana's cultural heritage through contemporary fashion, using traditional textiles and indigenous aesthetics to create designs capable of competing on the global stage.
"Fashion is more than clothing. It is culture, innovation and storytelling. It is identity made visible," he said.
Prof. Asare-Nkansah encouraged the graduating students to continue learning, innovating and pursuing excellence as they transition into professional practice.
The Dean of the Faculty of Art, Professor Karî'kachä Seid'ou, said the theme reflects the rigorous journey students undertake as they develop from aspiring creatives into professionals capable of shaping the future of the fashion industry.
"To become is not a passive state. It is an active, rigorous journey of transformation. For our graduating students, this theme captures the exact trajectory of their years spent within our studios and lecture halls," he said.
He urged members of the University community to participate in the exhibition and fashion show and encouraged the graduating designers to continue evolving and pushing creative boundaries beyond the University.
The Head of the Department of Industrial Art, Professor Samuel Nortey, said the theme reflects the Department's continued growth and expanding international recognition. He noted that students are gaining increasing global exposure through exhibitions and engagements beyond Ghana, while the Department's multidisciplinary approach equips them with the knowledge and practical skills needed to thrive in the creative industry.
Story: Belinda Opoku Danso Photos: Isaac Kwaku Duah
