Never Regard Your Office as a Privilege Above Others – Otumfuo to VC Prof. Agyare
The Occupant of the Golden Stool, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has cautioned the newly inducted Vice-Chancellor of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Prof. Christian Agyare, against treating his office merely as an avenue to exercise authority over others.
His Majesty challenged him to use it as a platform to develop others and not to overshadow them.
“Never regard this office as a privilege above others. Rather, regard it as a sacred trust placed in your hands for the benefit of generations you may never meet. Institutions become stronger when leadership develops others rather than seeks to overshadow them,” His Majesty said at his investiture on August 1, 2026.
Otumfuo further reminded him that as VC, he is the guardian of academic integrity, custodian of core values, and the steward entrusted with shaping the university’s destiny and securing its future.
His Majesty stated that the VC’s office confers authority, but was quick to add that authority alone does not inspire confidence.
“People willingly follow leaders who listen when they speak, who consult before they decide, and who respect those they lead. I’m told you have already consulted as many people as possible, and so that’s a good start,” he said.
“Universities thrive through consultation rather than command. You are going to lead a community of scholars, professionals, administrators, students, and workers contributing in unique ways to the advancement of the institution. Your success will depend not only on the decisions you make but also on your ability to bring people together for a common purpose.”
Story by Hajara Fuseini
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