Otumfuo Urges New KNUST VC to Protect and Expand University’s Legacy

Professor Christian Agyare has officially been inducted as the 13th Vice-Chancellor of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) at a colourful investiture ceremony held at the university’s Great Hall.

The ceremony was presided over by the Chancellor of KNUST and Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who charged the new Vice-Chancellor to build on the remarkable achievements of his predecessors while steering the university towards greater academic excellence.

Build on Existing Foundations

Addressing government officials, traditional authorities, academics, students, and invited guests, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II stressed the importance of continuity in leadership.

He urged Prof. Agyare to sustain and expand programmes that have strengthened KNUST’s reputation as one of Africa’s leading science and technology universities.

“The future of KNUST lies in sustaining programmes and projects that promote innovation and contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s development,” the Asantehene stated.

He further encouraged the university’s management to remain committed to its strategic development plan while pursuing partnerships that will enhance teaching, research, innovation, and student welfare.

Prof. Rita Dickson Offers Support

The immediate past Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Mrs. Rita Akosua Dickson, congratulated her successor and pledged her full support whenever needed.

Reflecting on her six-year tenure, she highlighted major accomplishments in digital transformation, infrastructure expansion, research, and internationalisation.

She advised Prof. Agyare to embrace consultation, teamwork, and inclusive leadership in advancing the university’s vision.

Government Commends New Vice-Chancellor

Representing President John Dramani Mahama, Chief of Staff Dr. Julius Debrah congratulated Prof. Agyare on his appointment and expressed confidence in his ability to lead the university successfully.

He encouraged the new Vice-Chancellor to remain accessible, collaborative, and committed to strengthening relationships across the university community.

Prof. Agyare Unveils Bold Vision

In his inaugural address, Prof. Christian Agyare unveiled an ambitious vision aimed at transforming KNUST into a globally competitive institution that produces innovators and entrepreneurs rather than job seekers.

“A university that teaches without innovating and researches without creating has only done half its work,” he said.

He added that KNUST’s mission is to ensure knowledge extends beyond lecture halls and laboratories to create lasting impact in society.

To realise this vision, Prof. Agyare announced seven strategic priorities centred on adaptive governance, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, research commercialisation, industry collaboration, and entrepreneurship.

Drawing lessons from the rapid economic growth of countries such as South Korea, China, and Singapore, he noted that the future wealth of nations would increasingly depend on intellectual capital instead of natural resources.

He also pledged to introduce dual-degree programmes, strengthen start-up incubation, expand the use of Professors of Practice, commercialise research outputs, and improve financial sustainability by reducing dependence on government funding.

Concluding his address, Prof. Agyare called on the university community to work together towards a shared vision.

“Together, we will move from excellence to eminence, from promise to impact, and from aspiration to transformation. Together, we shall shape the future with our legacies,” he declared.

About Prof. Christian Agyare

Prof. Christian Agyare is a renowned pharmaceutical scientist, researcher, and educator with decades of experience in academia, research, and university administration. Before his appointment, he held several senior leadership positions at KNUST. He succeeds Prof. Mrs. Rita Akosua Dickson, whose six-year tenure was widely recognised for significant institutional transformation