The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST) is pursuing stronger collaboration with the Ministries of the Interior and Sports and Recreation to strengthen campus security, expand technology-driven solutions and position sports as a platform for talent development, research and economic growth.
Strengthening campus security through technology and partnerships
KNUST Vice-Chancellor Professor Christian Agyare said the University’s engagement with the Ministry of the Interior formed part of efforts to build strategic partnerships that support institutional development, particularly in security and the application of technology.
The Interior Minister, Mr. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, pledged support for measures to improve security at KNUST and said he would engage the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) on interventions to enhance safety on campus.
He asked the University to submit a proposal outlining its security requirements for consideration.
The Minister also highlighted the role of technology in modern policing, citing ongoing efforts to develop systems for monitoring police operations, identifying traffic offenders and strengthening crime prevention.
Driving innovation for national development
The Interior Minister encouraged KNUST to continue developing innovative solutions that respond to national challenges, assuring the University of his support in facilitating initiatives that promote development.
He said universities had an important role to play in generating knowledge and technology-based solutions that could improve national systems and public services.
Renewable energy support for sustainable university development
Discussions also touched on possible expansion of solar power infrastructure to university campuses and other public institutions.
Mr. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak disclosed that the Ministry of Energy was considering such an initiative, which he said would support institutions in delivering their core mandates.
Professor Agyare said the intervention would complement KNUST’s existing solar lighting projects and help address security concerns linked to inadequate lighting on campus.
Positioning sports as an economic and talent development tool
At the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, Professor Agyare said KNUST was seeking to redefine sports beyond competition by focusing on talent identification, athlete development, research and economic opportunities.
“For me in particular, it means that it is not just the educational aspect but also the financial and economic opportunities that sports can provide,” he said.
He said the University intended to identify and nurture sporting talent that could contribute to both KNUST and Ghana’s development.
Using science and data to transform sports
The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Mr. Kofi Iddie Adams, welcomed KNUST’s commitment to strengthening sports development through research and innovation.
He said Ghana had significant sporting talent but needed structured systems to identify, develop, market and retain athletes.
“We have the talents,” he said, adding that data-driven approaches were essential for effective talent management and sports development.
He stressed the importance of applying science and evidence in sports management.
“Sports must be backed with science. There is no trial-and-error system,” he said.
Story and Photos: Emmanuel Offei
