The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has officially launched the 75th anniversary celebration of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), commending the institution for its remarkable contribution to Ghana’s development while urging it to embrace innovation and digital transformation to secure an even brighter future.

The colourful ceremony, held at the University’s Great Hall in Kumasi, brought together a distinguished gathering of traditional leaders, members of the diplomatic corps, university alumni, students, representatives of Vice-Chancellors Ghana and other prominent stakeholders to mark the milestone under the theme, “From Excellence to Eminence: 75 Years of KNUST.”

A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of a 354-page commemorative book chronicling the university’s journey from its establishment to its emergence as one of Africa’s leading institutions of higher learning.

The publication, titled “70 Years of Global Impact,” documents KNUST’s history, achievements and contributions to national development through education, research and innovation.

In a symbolic show of support, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II autographed the first 10 copies of the book, with the Asanteman Council purchasing the first copy for GH¢1 million.

Other notable purchases included Telecel Ghana Chief Executive Officer Patricia Obo-Nai, who acquired a copy for GH¢200,000, Group Chief Executive Officer of Agri-Impact Limited Daniel Fahene Acquaye, who purchased one for GH¢100,000, and former minister and KNUST alumnus Hackman Owusu-Agyeman, who paid GH¢50,000.

The anniversary celebrations will feature a series of activities, including an inter-college quiz competition, community impact projects, the “75 Stories of KNUST” initiative, and a grand dinner and awards night.

Celebrating an Enduring Legacy

Addressing the gathering, the Asantehene described KNUST’s 75-year journey as a story of vision, resilience and limitless possibilities.

“We gather not only to commemorate the vision of our founders but also to celebrate an enduring legacy of excellence and extraordinary achievement,” he said.

According to him, the university has evolved from humble beginnings into a globally respected institution renowned for academic excellence, cutting-edge research and service to society.

He praised KNUST for pioneering major reforms in Ghana’s tertiary education sector, including being the first university to introduce the semester and collegiate systems—innovations that have since become national standards.

Otumfuo noted that generations of engineers, scientists, architects, medical practitioners, entrepreneurs and public leaders trained by KNUST continue to shape Ghana’s infrastructure, industries, healthcare and broader socio-economic development.

Looking ahead, he commended the university’s 10-year strategic roadmap, Plan 2K35, describing it as a bold vision to elevate KNUST from excellence to greater eminence through stronger research, technological innovation, academic excellence and digital transformation.

He encouraged the university’s management to continue investing in modern infrastructure, expand research capacity and cultivate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship to maintain its global competitiveness.

The Asantehene also praised the contributors to the commemorative publication for preserving the institution’s rich history for future generations.

Chairman of the 75th Anniversary Planning Committee, Professor William Otoo Ellis, said the commemorative book was conceived to document the university’s immense contributions to national and global development over the past seven and a half decades.

Chairman of the Book Committee, Elliot Agyare, described the publication as an invaluable resource for researchers, students and policymakers interested in Ghana’s educational history.

“Today, we do not simply launch a book; we launch a bridge between generations. We launch a conversation between our founders and our future,” he remarked.

As KNUST embarks on its year-long anniversary celebrations, the institution is expected to reflect on its achievements while charting a new course aimed at strengthening its position as a leading centre of excellence in science, technology and innovation in Africa.