Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Chancellor of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has urged KNUST to support higher education and national development. He made this statement during a programme dubbed, “AN EVENING WITH THE CHANCELLOR”.
The event which was the first of its kind was organised to mark the the 15th anniversary of Otumfuo’s ascension to the throne as well as his 64th birthday celebration.There were cultural performances such as adowa, kete, drum appellations, traditional music, poetry recitals, fontomfrom ensemble, mpinitin and ntahara. The University Choir and the Pax Romana Choir also spiced the occasion with Ghanaian choral music.
In a special address, Otumfuo explained that the challenges facing higher education and national development in Ghana were the responsibility of all. As students , teachers, administrators, parents and stakeholders, the onus was upon us all to think aloud, brainstorm, share ideas and find common pathways together to help develop and advance the level of science and technology in the country. It is only when we come together as people of Ghana that we can find common grounds to overcome our challenges.
He added that celebrations like these created the platform for that rare opportunity where people who mattered most in the society came together for a common goal, as well as measures to promote higher education and national development. He showed his appreciation to the University for organising such an event to mark his 15th anniversary ceremony.
Prof. William Ottoo Ellis, Vice-Chancellor of KNUST, in his speech observed that our chieftancy institution, the University and Asanteman had witnessed immense transformation and prestige especially through the exploits of Otumfuo over the past 15 years of his accesion to the Golden stool of Asanteman. The sterling leadership qualities of the Asantehene, his numerous contributions to socio-economic development through his charities and foundations such as the Otumfuo Education Fund were what had brought Asanteman this far. It was for this reason that Otumfuo had received innumerable awards both nationally and internationally for his achievements and visionary leadership.
Prof. Ellis concluded that the University was donating an amount of GH¢10,000 (ten thousand Ghana cedis) to support the Otumfuo Education Fund which coincidentally supported needy students from KNUST. He used the opportunity to show his appreciation to Otumfuo’s invaluable contribution to the cause of KNUST and education in general.
