Otumfuo lauds government for teaching hospital project, charges contractor to respect timelines
His Royal Majesty, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene and Chancellor of KNUST addressing the 59th Graduation ceremony.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Overlord of Asanteman and Chancellor of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has applauded Government for commiting funds for the completion of the teaching hospital Project for the school .
He however charged the contractor to respect the timelines of the project.
This, the King noted would help the school to make use of the facility once it is completed and commissioned.
“I commend the government of Ghana highly for committing to provide funds for the completion of the Teaching Hospital project for the university and I hereby charge the contractor to respect timelines”, the Asantehene stated at the 59th Graduation ceremony at the Great Hall.
Decade of Strategy and Innovation:
The King also commended the University Governing Council for initiating a comprehensive ten-year strategic plan (2026–2035).
He expressed confidence that this roadmap would solidify the university’s reputation as a global hub for excellence.
“I am certain that the implementation of this ten-year strategic plan will position this university as a hallmark of technology, research, and innovation,” Otumfuo stated.
Institutional Reforms and Infrastructure:
Addressing the university’s leadership, the Asantehene urged the Governing Council and Management to remain responsive to the school’s critical infrastructural needs.
He highlighted two primary areas for growth:
Strategic Partnerships:
Building alliances with institutions that can transform both the human capital and physical infrastructure of the university.
Administrative Excellence:
Continuously refining administrative processes to align with international best practices.
Vice Chancellor’s Reflection:
The outgoing Vice Chancellor, Prof. Rita Akosua Dickson, expressed her profound gratitude to the Asantehene for his steadfast guidance throughout her tenure.
She noted that the King’s consistent physical presence at every congregation since becoming Chancellor serves as a testament to his commitment to the institution.
Prof. Dickson, who is set to conclude her term on July 31, 2026, credited the university’s recent “massive achievements” in infrastructure and academic development to the values and support provided by the Asantehene and the Governing Council.
Graduation Statistics and Feats:
The 59th Congregation celebrated the graduation of 8,377 students, showcasing a significant lean toward advanced research and postgraduate studies:
Postgraduate Degrees 5,241 (63.9%)
First Degrees 3,136 (36.1%)
PhD Graduates 71 (20 Females).
Highlighting the university’s growing global influence, Prof. Dickson announced that KNUST faculties had successfully secured $2.3 million in international grants through highly competitive bidding processes.
This, she said further cements the university’s status as a research powerhouse.
Source: Ghana/otecfmghana.com/Michael Ofosu-Afriyie, Kumasi
