KNUST Vice-Chancellor Reaffirms Commitment to Strong Alumni Collaboration

The Vice-Chancellor of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Professor Mrs. Rita Akosua Dickson, has reaffirmed the University’s commitment to sustained collaboration with its alumni, describing alumni engagement as a key pillar of institutional growth and advancement.

Prof. Mrs. Dickson gave the assurance during a courtesy call by speakers of the Nyansapo Dialogue Series 2026. She emphasised that KNUST belongs to its alumni and noted that strong alumni–university partnerships are a defining characteristic of successful universities around the world.

“This University belongs to its alumni. Across the globe, the advancement of great universities is clearly linked to the strength of their alumni,” she stated.

The Vice-Chancellor acknowledged that the University has faced challenges in the past regarding alumni leadership and relations. She, however, reiterated Management’s commitment to dialogue, transparency, and mutual respect in addressing such issues.

“When things do not go well, we must take responsibility, apologise and find better ways to move forward together,” Prof. Mrs. Dickson said.

She further indicated that University Management remains open to exploring new models of alumni engagement and encouraged alumni leaders to take ownership of the relationship by clearly communicating the kind of support they require from the University.

Prof. Mrs. Dickson explained that the Alumni and Advancement Office was established to support alumni leadership and engagement, stressing that the role of Management is to provide the necessary institutional backing to enable alumni to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the University’s development.

She expressed appreciation to the speakers for their time, mentorship and contribution to the Nyansapo Dialogue Series, praising the diversity and balance of perspectives shared. According to her, the mix of experiences presented was timely and aligned with KNUST’s vision of providing holistic education to students.

Speaking on behalf of the speakers, former diplomat and Council Chair, Mr. Kwame Saarah Mensah, commended University Management for organising impactful initiatives such as the Nyansapo Dialogue Series. He noted that the platform provides students with practical guidance that complements classroom learning.

Mr. Mensah assured that alumni would continue to play an active role in the University’s activities and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting KNUST’s growth and development.

The Nyansapo Dialogue Series forms part of KNUST’s broader efforts to bridge academic learning with real-world experience through engagement with accomplished professionals and alumni.