Asantehene Launches KNUST 75th Anniversary and Commemorative Book

The Chancellor of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has launched the university’s 75th anniversary celebrations and an accompanying commemorative publication.

The event took place on June 24, 2026, under the theme: “Excellence to Eminence: 75 Years of KNUST.”

Present at the ceremony held on campus were the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Rita Akosua Dickson; the Spanish Ambassador to Ghana, Ángel Lossada Torres-Quevedo; the Japanese Ambassador to Ghana, Hiroshi Yoshimoto; and other dignitaries.

Launching Milestone
Otumfuo acknowledged the vision for a university in Kumasi, conceived by Ghana’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, and his uncle, Otumfuo Osei Agyemang Prempeh II.

Reflecting on the institution’s journey, the King of the Asante Kingdom said it had grown into a globally respected university distinguished for academic excellence, research, innovation, and service to society.

“It has pioneered transformative initiatives, including being the first university in Ghana to introduce the semester system and collegiate system — innovations that have since become national standards and positioned the university at the forefront of education reforms in the country.

“Over the decades, this great university has produced generations of professionals, engineers, scientists, medical practitioners, architects, entrepreneurs, and leaders whose contributions continue to shape Ghana, Africa, and the world.”

Satisfaction
His Majesty expressed satisfaction with the university’s consistent capacity to adapt, innovate, and lead in an evolving global landscape.

“As Chancellor, I am particularly proud of the university’s commitment to relevance. The university continues to uphold its founding mission of responding to the demands of the 21st century.”

Otumfuo hailed the institution’s foresight in preparing for the future through its 10-year strategic plan — Plan 2K35 — and the KNUST Act, 2025 (Act 1157).

“This ambitious roadmap reflects the university’s determination to move from excellence to greater eminence by shaping academic standards, advancing research and innovation, embracing digital transformation, expanding global partnerships, and deepening its contribution to national development.

“Equally important is the KNUST Act, 2025 (Act 1157), which provides a renewed, modern framework for governance, administration, and institutional growth. The Act strengthens the university’s capacity to pursue its mission with greater autonomy, accountability, and effectiveness while positioning it to respond confidently to emerging challenges and responsibilities.”

Focus
The Asantehene further called for continuous investment in infrastructure and the embrace of digital transformation to strengthen research capacity and foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.

His Majesty also called for a commitment to nurturing responsible citizens with integrity, character, and purpose.

Commendation and Counsel
The Monarch commended faculty and staff for their dedication and sacrifices, emphasising, “Your work remains the backbone of the university’s success.”

His Majesty also acknowledged the support of governments, alumni, and partners.

“We thank you for your support over the years and urge you to deepen engagement as we chart the next chapter of this journey.”

Meanwhile, students were reminded, “You are the future of this institution and our nation. Take full advantage of the opportunity before you. Strive for excellence and act with integrity.”

Transforming Lives
In her address, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Rita Akosua Dickson, highlighted the institution’s role in shaping and transforming lives.

According to her, KNUST has been more than classrooms, laboratories, studios, and workshops. Over the years, it has served as a home, a family, and a place for nurturing dreams and shaping futures.

“For the past 75 years, KNUST has provided fertile ground for the conceptualisation, development, and execution of many impactful projects.

“It has provided an avenue where many citizens of the world come to gain and contribute to knowledge. Ebenezer — this is how far the Lord has brought KNUST.”

Not Just Degrees
She stated that the university’s impact transcends the award of degrees, having produced generations of graduates whose contributions have shaped the destiny of Ghana.

“Today, KNUST alumni occupy positions of influence in government, industry, academia, medicine, engineering, business, law, science, technology, and the creative arts. Their contributions stand as testimony to the quality of training this institution has consistently provided.”

Tribute
She paid tribute to Otumfuo Sir Osei Agyeman Prempeh II, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Kwame Nkrumah, farmers, traders, and market women whose sacrifices helped build KNUST.

“Otumfuo Sir Osei Agyeman Prempeh II, whose foresight ensured that the dream of a university in Kumasi became a reality. His singular effort in granting this large parcel of land to the university — which Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has protected with all his energy — is deeply appreciated by this university.”

“We are grateful to the government and people of Ghana, both past and present, and to all our development partners for how far we have come.”

Call to Duty
Meanwhile, the Chair of the Anniversary Planning Committee, Prof. William Otu Ellis, urged stakeholders to embrace the opportunities and responsibilities ahead.

“Together, let us reaffirm our commitment to advancing knowledge, fostering innovation, and transforming lives for the benefit of society.”

Book Launch
The occasion was also used to launch the KNUST 75th Anniversary Commemorative Book, a landmark publication that chronicles the rich history of KNUST and traces the remarkable transformations the university has undergone over the past 75 years.

It showcases KNUST’s significant contributions to the development of Ghana, Africa, and the global community, and celebrates revered chiefs, key stakeholders, and distinguished alumni whose achievements and service have positively impacted the world.

Launching the book, Otumfuo noted that the effort would ensure KNUST’s first 75 years are preserved for posterity.

“I commend all those who contributed to this important publication.”

History
On October 6, 1951, then Kumasi College of Technology was established by government ordinance.

Subsequently, in January 1952, 200 students from Achimota College and some administrative staff were brought in to serve as the foundation students and staff.

In 1961, KNUST transitioned from a college to a university.

Story by Hajara Fuseini

Click to read more: https://opemsuo.com/author/hajara-fuseini/