KNUST Engineering at 75: Leaders push for research that drives Ghana’s development

The College of Engineering at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has been challenged to translate its research into practical solutions, create employment opportunities and strengthen Ghana’s industrial development as it marks 75 years of engineering education.

The call was made at the launch of the college’s anniversary celebrations in Kumasi, where university leaders and traditional authorities urged the Faculty to deepen industry collaboration, attract research funding and equip students to tackle pressing national challenges.

Under the theme “Excellence to Eminence: 75 Years of Engineering Education at KNUST,” the college is seeking to build on its legacy while positioning itself as a globally recognised centre for engineering education, research and enterprise.

Provost of the College of Engineering, Professor Kwabena Biritwum Nyarko, said the anniversary presented an opportunity to define the institution’s ambitions for the next 25 years.

He said the college wanted to be recognised not only for the quality of its graduates but also for relevant research, strong partnerships and solutions that make a measurable difference to society.

“Our theme, ‘Excellence to Eminence,’ is a call to action. We want to move more decisively from knowledge to innovation, from innovation to enterprise, and from enterprise to national and global impact,” he said.

Vice-Chancellor of KNUST, Professor Christian Agyare said the College of Engineering was central to KNUST’s Plan 2K85 strategic vision, which seeks to strengthen the university’s contribution to science, technology, research and national development.

He urged the college to embrace digital transformation, promote sustainable engineering practices and expand international research networks to meet the changing needs of industry and society.

“For the College of Engineering, the transition from excellence to eminence requires us to move beyond producing competent graduates to developing engineers who are capable of anticipating emerging challenges, creating new technologies, and influencing policy and transforming industries,” he said.

Professor Agyare stressed that research must deliver tangible benefits to communities and businesses rather than remain confined to academic publications.

Chairman of the University Council, Akyamfuor Asafo Boakye Agyemang-Bonsu, said the growing complexity of global challenges required engineering education to evolve.

He cited climate change, sustainable energy, artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, digital transformation and resilient infrastructure as areas demanding greater research attention.

“Our students must be equipped not only to seek employment, but also to create solutions, businesses, and opportunities for others,” he said.

The Paramount Chief of Asante Mampong, Daasebere Osei Bonsu III, urged the college to make competitive research funding and grant acquisition, an institutional priorities.

He said stronger international partnerships and effective grant management would help attract resources, equip laboratories and create opportunities for staff and students.

“Our academics must be deliberate in pursuing competitive funding while the college provides the systems and support needed to turn research ideas into funded and sustainable projects,” he said.

Daasebere Osei Bonsu III also called for research to respond more directly to practical needs in energy, mining, environmental management, land administration, transport and infrastructure.

As the College of Engineering celebrates 75 years, its next phase will require closer ties between academia and industry, stronger research funding and training that responds to emerging technological and economic demands.

The ultimate test of its ambition to move from excellence to eminence will be its contribution to solving national problems, strengthening businesses and improving livelihoods in Ghana and beyond.