Otumfuo Osei Tutu II launches book to celebrate KNUST at 75
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has officially launched the 75th anniversary celebrations of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) at a colourful ceremony held in Kumasi.
The event attracted a distinguished audience, including alumni of the university, members of the Vice-Chancellors Ghana association, traditional leaders, diplomats, students, and other prominent guests.
Held under the theme, “From Excellence to Eminence: 75 Years of KNUST,” the ceremony also featured the unveiling of a 354-page commemorative book documenting the university’s journey and achievements since its establishment.
Titled “70 Years of Global Impact,” the publication chronicles KNUST’s rich history, milestones, and contributions to national development across various sectors of Ghana’s economy.
A highlight of the occasion was the signing of the first ten copies of the book by the Asantehene. The Asanteman Council purchased the first copy for GH¢1 million. Other notable purchases included GH¢200,000 from Patricia Obo-Nai, Chief Executive Officer of Telecel Ghana; GH¢100,000 from Daniel Fahene Acquaye, Group Chief Executive Officer of Agri-Impact Limited; and GH¢50,000 from alumnus and former minister Hackman Owusu-Agyeman.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, KNUST has planned several activities, including an inter-college quiz competition, community outreach projects, the “75 Stories of KNUST” initiative, and a dinner and awards ceremony.
Celebrating an Enduring Legacy
Addressing attendees at the Great Hall, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II said the occasion was not only a celebration of the vision of KNUST’s founders but also a recognition of the institution’s enduring legacy and remarkable achievements.
According to him, the university’s story is one of opportunity and transformation, where students arrive with aspirations and leave equipped to make meaningful contributions to society.
He noted that KNUST has evolved from modest beginnings into a globally respected institution renowned for academic excellence, groundbreaking research, innovation, and service to society. The university, he added, pioneered major reforms in Ghana’s higher education sector, including being the first to introduce both the semester and collegiate systems.
These innovations, which later became national benchmarks, have positioned KNUST as a leader in tertiary education reform.
The Asantehene observed that over the decades, the institution has produced generations of engineers, scientists, medical professionals, architects, entrepreneurs, and leaders whose work continues to influence Ghana, Africa, and the wider world.
He emphasized that KNUST’s impact can be seen across the country’s infrastructure, industries, healthcare sector, and broader national development efforts.
Looking ahead, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II highlighted the university’s 10-year strategic roadmap, Plan 2K35, describing it as a deliberate effort to prepare KNUST for future challenges and opportunities. The plan aims to elevate the institution from excellence to greater eminence through enhanced academic standards, strengthened research and innovation, and accelerated digital transformation.
While commending both former and current vice-chancellors for their contributions to the university’s growth, he encouraged the management to continue investing in infrastructure, expanding research capacity, embracing technology, and promoting innovation and entrepreneurship.
The Asantehene also praised the individuals involved in producing the commemorative book, noting that their efforts had ensured the preservation of KNUST’s first 75 years for future generations.
Purpose of the Commemorative Book
The Chairman of the Anniversary Planning Committee, Professor William Otoo Ellis, explained that the publication was conceived to document and preserve the university’s impact since its founding.
Similarly, Chairman of the Book Committee, Elliot Agyare, described the book as an important resource for stakeholders, scholars, and researchers interested in Ghana’s educational history.
He remarked that the publication represents more than a historical record, describing it as a bridge connecting past generations with future ones and fostering a dialogue between the institution’s founders and those who will shape its future.
Transforming Lives Through Education
In her welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mrs Rita Akosua Dickson, stated that KNUST’s legacy extends beyond the degrees it has awarded. She said the university’s true impact is reflected in the lives it has transformed and the opportunities it has created over the years.
According to her, generations of KNUST graduates have played vital roles in shaping Ghana’s development and continue to contribute significantly across diverse fields.
She noted that the university’s alumni currently occupy influential leadership positions in government, industry, academia, medicine, engineering, business, law, finance, technology, and the creative arts, underscoring KNUST’s lasting contribution to national and global progress.
