KOISAN 2025
The Kaptains of Industry Soiree and Appreciation Night, held on Friday, 30 January 2026 at the Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra, marked a significant milestone for the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology as it celebrated partnership, philanthropy and excellence. The event brought together academia, industry leaders, government officials and alumni in an atmosphere of high-level networking and recognition. Distinguished personalities including the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mrs. Rita Akosua Dickson, the Minister for the Interior Hon. Muntaka Mohammed, the Council Chair Akyamfo Asafo Boakye Agyemang-Bonsu, and Dr. Kwaame Saraah-Mensah, Global Advisory Council Chair, graced the occasion alongside other national figures, underscoring the importance of collaboration between the university and its stakeholders.
A major highlight of the evening was the formal launch of the KNUST Alumni Endowment Fund and the inauguration of its Board of Trustees, chaired by Nana Ansah Sasraku III, aimed at creating a transparent and sustainable structure to support future students and institutional development. Awards were presented to a wide range of honourees across three main categories — distinguished individuals, state and international organisations, and private sector institutions — reflecting the diverse ecosystem that contributes to KNUST’s growth. Overall, the event reinforced the message that the university’s strength lies not only in academic achievement but also in the enduring partnerships and collective commitment of its alumni, corporate allies and development partners toward a secure, innovative and self-sustaining future.
Awardees Profile
Chief Executive Officer, Buck Press Limited
Mr. Eric Kofi Buckman has been a longstanding and committed partner of the Department of Publishing Studies. Through Buck Press Limited, he has sponsored numerous departmental activities, including the recently celebrated 40th Anniversary of the Publishing Studies Programme, as well as several past academic and professional events. For over three decades, Buck Press Limited has consistently provided internship opportunities to students, significantly contributing to practical skills development and industry exposure. Mr. Buckman is currently renovating the lecturers’ room at the Department of Publishing Studies, further demonstrating his sustained commitment to academic infrastructure development and student mentorship.
(SWCA)
In recognition of Sysmex West and Central Africa Ltd —advancing diagnostics education at KNUST by connecting industry innovation with academic excellence.
Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics has supported diagnostic imaging training through strategic collaborations. In 2023, the company partnered with Medpoint Solutions to donate two ultrasound machines valued at US$46,000. In 2025, Mindray further collaborated with Cassona Global Imaging Ltd to donate a 4D ultrasound system with strain elastography functionality, valued at US$40,000. These contributions have strengthened imaging education, clinical training, and research capacity.
The National Health Insurance Authority continues to play a vital role in community health and student development. NHIA provides annual support of not less than GH¢150,000 to the Community Health Outreach Programme. Additionally, the Authority donated a 30-seater bus valued at GH¢1,200,000 to KNUST SMS, significantly improving mobility, logistics, and outreach capacity for academic and community-based programmes.
(African Health Collaborative – AHC)
Since 2023, the African Health Collaborative, supported by the Mastercard Health Collaborative, has been a major partner of the School of Public Health. Over the past three years, AHC has funded postgraduate training across multiple programmes, including MPH/MSc Health Services Planning and Management, MPhil Health Systems Research and Management, MPhil Field Epidemiology and Applied Biostatistics, MPH/MSc Global Health, and Non-Communicable Diseases. Scholarship support to date amounts to GH¢10,396,795. Beyond degree programmes, AHC jointly mounts ten short courses annually with the School of Public Health to build competencies of health professionals at the primary healthcare level across Ghana and Africa. These initiatives, funded fully by AHC, are valued in the millions of Ghana cedis and are expected to continue throughout the project period.
Alisa Hotels Limited made a generous donation of GH¢100,000 in support of the College of Health Sciences Endowment Fund. Beyond this financial contribution, the company has provided additional forms of support that have positively impacted various College initiatives, contributing to institutional development and sustainability.
Ernest Chemists Limited donated GH¢100,000 towards the College of Health Sciences Endowment Fund. In addition to this support, the company has made several other meaningful contributions that have enhanced academic programmes and strengthened the College’s capacity to deliver quality education and services.
UNFPA has been instrumental in the establishment and continuous support of the Midwifery Programme. The agency supported the inaugural stakeholders’ workshop that developed the curriculum for the BSc Midwifery Programme—the first of its kind in Ghana. UNFPA also donated a 33-seater bus, provided essential equipment, and continues to support the retooling of the midwifery skills laboratory, strengthening both training quality and practical competency.
Dr. Ernest Kwadwo Puni Kwarko has consistently demonstrated exceptional generosity and alumni commitment to the School of Medical Sciences and its students. In 2025, he awarded a US$500 cash prize to the Best Student in Community Health, donated US$2,000 to the Students’ Elective Scholarship Support Fund, and made a special €500 contribution as part of the 50th Anniversary celebrations. He also sponsored the construction of a commemorative monument signage for SMS, leaving a lasting symbol of alumni pride and institutional legacy.
For the past nine years, Pharm. Dr. Laud Kemetse (Laud K Pharmacy) has contributed no less than GH¢10,000 annually towards the organisation of the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences White Coat Ceremony. He also serves as a preceptor for PharmD students undertaking Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE) rotations, including exchange students from the University of Eastern Finland. Currently, he is refurbishing the Conference Room of the Department of Pharmacology into a state-of-the-art facility at a cost of GH¢25,000, as part of a broader initiative to improve faculty infrastructure.
(Agya Koo Nimo)
Mr. Daniel Amponsah, popularly known as Agya Koo Nimo, has rendered distinguished and long-standing service to the University community through his cultural performances. Over the years, he has led the Agya Koo Nimo and Adadam Agofamma Troupe in performances at numerous University functions, including Congregation ceremonies, Inaugural Lectures, and other major academic and ceremonial events at the Faculty, College, and University-wide levels.
His contributions have significantly enriched the cultural identity of the University and promoted Ghanaian musical heritage within academic spaces. In recognition of his sustained service and impact, the Centre for Cultural and African Studies (CeCAST) strongly recommends Mr. Daniel Amponsah for recognition under the “Individuals” category.
(Kessben Media Group)
Mr. Stephen Boateng, representing Kessben Media Group, has made notable contributions to institutional development through the donation of key conference and office equipment. His support includes one conference table, thirty executive conference chairs, four armchairs, and an 85-inch Samsung Smart Conference Television. These donations have significantly improved the functionality and professional outlook of conference and meeting spaces, enhancing administrative efficiency and stakeholder engagement.
(OmniBSIC Bank)
Ms. Bernice Asamoah, through OmniBSIC Bank, played a pivotal role in facilitating the donation of thirty desktop computers and accompanying furniture to the School, at an estimated value of GH¢350,000.00. This contribution significantly strengthened the School’s SONSOL Project and expanded access to digital learning resources for students. The donation was made during the 20th Anniversary celebrations of the KNUST Business School. Additionally, Ms. Asamoah facilitated further laptop donations through OmniBSIC Bank to support students in need, reinforcing the Bank’s commitment to inclusive education and student welfare.
The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) supported the establishment of a Resource Centre for the KNUST Business School at an estimated cost of GH¢200,000.00. This initiative has enhanced teaching, learning, and professional development by providing students with access to specialised accounting resources, study spaces, and professional materials, thereby strengthening the linkage between academic training and professional certification.
Since 2008, the Ministry has maintained a strategic partnership with the Institute of Regional Development and Innovation Studies (IRDIS) to advance Ghana’s rural development agenda. This collaboration has mobilised significant financial and material resources for KNUST and strengthened national rural development efforts. The Ministry has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with IRDIS to promote sustainable and inclusive rural development while enhancing the capacity of rural development professionals and institutions in Ghana. Notably, the Ministry commissioned IRDIS to develop the revised National Rural Development Policy (2025–2034), and continues to provide institutional support letters to facilitate IRDIS’ engagement with external development partners.
(ICI)
Since 2019, the International Cocoa Initiative has engaged IRDIS in several research and evaluation assignments focused on child labour, child protection policies, and cash transfer interventions within cocoa-growing communities. Through these engagements, ICI has commissioned IRDIS/BIRD to undertake projects including evaluations of community development initiatives in Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, baseline and endline child labour prevalence surveys in the Eastern and Brong Ahafo Regions, assessments of child participation in Child Labour Remediation Systems, and evaluations of gender-transformative cash transfer and Alliance for Change projects. These collaborations have strengthened the Institute’s technical and financial capacity and deepened its relationships with key stakeholders in the child protection and cocoa sustainability sector.
Since 2012, Guinness Ghana Breweries Ltd. has contracted IRDIS/BIRD to conduct three evaluation assignments on its local raw material sourcing programme. These evaluations have supported evidence-based improvements in the programme’s implementation and impact. Discussions are currently underway for IRDIS to undertake a fourth evaluation assignment in 2025, reflecting the sustained confidence in the Institute’s research and evaluation expertise.
The World Food Programme (WFP), Ghana has provided substantial support to KNUST through the donation of a tractor, 25 workshop toolboxes, two multipurpose crop threshers, and two multipurpose crop dryers, alongside a GHS 200,000 contribution for the repair of teaching and production equipment. These interventions have strengthened practical training and research across Agricultural Engineering, Animal Science, and Horticulture.
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) supports KNUST through internship and employment opportunities, access to research sites and data for undergraduate and postgraduate research, and service as external examiners for postgraduate programmes, contributing to academic quality, research excellence, and industry–academia collaboration.
Dr. (Hc.) Ernest Akwasi Appiah has made significant contributions to KNUST through strategic donations supporting infrastructure, teaching, and student development. His support includes GHS 500,000 each to the Departments of Horticulture and Public Health, the construction of Phase One of a four-storey Horticulture Lecture, Office, and Laboratory Complex valued at approximately USD 1.2 million, and the donation of 100 laptops valued at GHS 1 million to the KNUST-SONSOL Project.
Agri-Impact Group has supported the Department by supplying two (2) greenhouses for student research, strengthening practical learning and applied agricultural research
The Forestry Commission of Ghana supports the Faculty by providing internship opportunities nationwide, access to research sites and data for undergraduate and postgraduate research, and guest lectures for postgraduate students, strengthening practical training, research, and professional exposure.
The Forestry Research Institute of Ghana (FRIG), under CSIR, supports the Department by providing internship opportunities, serving as external examiners for postgraduate students, and granting access to laboratories and experimental sites at subsidized rates, fostering practical learning and research excellence.
Tropenbos Ghana has supported the Department through scholarships for undergraduate and postgraduate students, funding student research, and organizing communication seminars. Since 2014, they have consistently delivered guest lectures for postgraduate students, offered internship opportunities, and collaborated on transdisciplinary student projects involving both local and international participants, promoting research excellence and global engagement.
PILL BROOK AQUATICS (PBA) LTD
John Tieta Domozoro, through Pill Brook Aquatics (PBA) Ltd., has supported the Department by donating bloodstock, contributing to the landscaping of the Department’s fish farm, and facilitating internship placements for students at aquaculture farms in Akosombo, enhancing practical training and industry exposure.
(VRA)
The Volta River Authority (VRA) has played a pivotal role in Ghana’s electricity generation across hydro, thermal, and solar power systems, and maintains a long-standing collaborative relationship with the College of Engineering. Notably, VRA has established a USD 900,000 Research Chair at KNUST to promote applied research in energy systems and has further contributed GHS 2,000,000 to the KNUST Endowment Fund. Beyond financial support, VRA consistently offers internship and industrial attachment opportunities, delivers guest lectures, and provides technical expertise. Collectively, these contributions have significantly strengthened the College of Engineering’s capacity in energy education, research, and hands-on student training.
(GRIDCo)
The Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) is responsible for managing Ghana’s high-voltage electricity transmission network and has supported the College of Engineering through practical and highly visible interventions. GRIDCo has donated GHS 1,000,000 to the KNUST Endowment Fund and financed the renovation of Levine Hall into an ultra-modern meeting facility valued at over GHS 300,000. In addition, GRIDCo provides internship opportunities, mentorship, and technical seminars for College of Engineering students, ensuring hands-on exposure to transmission systems and grid operations. These initiatives have enhanced COE’s infrastructure, strengthened its research and training environment, and improved the employability of its graduates.
Ghana Gas has supported the College of Engineering through targeted financial and infrastructural interventions. The company has contributed GHS 500,000 to the KNUST Endowment Fund and funded the establishment of an Automobile Laboratory valued at USD 50,000. These contributions have enhanced the College’s teaching and practical training capacity, particularly in areas related to mechanical and automotive engineering.
(GWL)
Ghana Water Limited (GWL) plays a key role in Ghana’s water supply operations while actively supporting academic training at KNUST. The company recently donated a brand-new Nissan Navara pickup vehicle to enhance departmental fieldwork and research activities in water engineering. In addition, GWL provides student internship opportunities, facilitates field visits, and engages in collaborative projects in water treatment and distribution. These initiatives align directly with the College of Engineering’s mission to produce practice-oriented graduates in civil and environmental engineering.
The Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) has played a pioneering role in advancing petroleum education and research at KNUST. Notably, GNPC initiated the establishment of the Petroleum Engineering programme at the College of Engineering, ensuring the development of local expertise to meet the demands of Ghana’s growing oil and gas industry. To strengthen teaching capacity, GNPC instituted a Visiting Lecturers Programme, bringing seasoned industry professionals into the classroom to support the newly developed programme. The Corporation also provides twelve (12) offshore internship slots annually, offering staff and students rare and invaluable hands-on exposure to petroleum operations. In addition, GNPC established the GNPC Research Chair at KNUST with a USD 1 million endowment, fostering high-level research and innovation in petroleum and energy engineering. Collectively, these strategic interventions have positioned the College of Engineering as a national leader in petroleum education, producing industry-ready graduates while expanding research and knowledge creation within Ghana’s oil and gas sector.
Yinson has supported the College of Engineering through the provision of a research grant to establish a Net Zero Laboratory at KNUST. This initiative strengthens the College’s capacity in sustainability-focused research, energy transition studies, and climate-resilient engineering solutions, while positioning the College at the forefront of net-zero and decarbonisation efforts in Ghana and the wider region.
ASKA Energy has supported the College of Engineering through financial contributions to the College of Engineering Endowment Fund. This support contributes to the long-term sustainability of academic programmes, research initiatives, and student development activities within the College.
Vester Oil supports the College of Engineering by providing internship opportunities for students. These placements offer practical industry exposure, enhance hands-on technical skills, and contribute to the development of industry-ready engineering graduates.
Ing. Asare Yeboah, a former Chief Executive Officer of ACON Engineering, has provided distinguished leadership and sustained support to the College of Engineering. He currently serves as Board Chair of ACON, Board Chair of the KEEP Advisory Board, and Board Chair of the College of Engineering Endowment Trustees. Through these roles, he has supported the College in numerous strategic ways, including opening pathways to industry partnerships, facilitating mentorship, and playing a key role in the mobilisation of financial and institutional support. His contributions have significantly strengthened the College’s industry linkages, governance structures, and long-term sustainability.
Ing. Kwabena Bimpong, a former President of the Ghana Institution of Engineering (GhIE) and Chief Executive Officer of ACON Engineering, has provided significant support to the College of Engineering in multiple capacities. His contributions include support for the ACON Conference Room at the College of Engineering, the provision of internship opportunities for students, and active engagement as a guest speaker at the College’s Summer School and other academic programmes. In addition, he has offered financial support toward College initiatives. Collectively, these contributions have enhanced student learning experiences, strengthened industry–academia linkages, and supported the College’s academic and professional development agenda.
Ing. William Amuna is a member of the KEEP Advisory Board and the College of Engineering Endowment Trustees and has provided meaningful support to the College of Engineering through both governance and practical interventions. He supported the re-roofing of Engineering laboratories, improving the safety and functionality of key teaching and research facilities. In addition, he has established scholarship schemes from which students of the College continue to benefit. Through his extensive professional networks, he has also opened valuable linkages within the energy sector, further strengthening the College’s industry engagement and student development opportunities.
Dr. K. B. Asante is a member of the KEEP Advisory Board and the College of Engineering Endowment Trustees and has made significant contributions to the growth and development of the College of Engineering. He supported the establishment of the Automobile Laboratory, strengthening practical teaching and research capacity, and has also served as a guest lecturer, sharing industry and leadership experience with students. In addition, Dr. Asante made a financial donation of USD 5,000 to the College of Engineering Endowment Fund. Beyond his personal contributions, he also supported the College extensively during his tenure as Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Gas, including support to the Endowment Fund and other strategic initiatives. Collectively, these contributions have enhanced infrastructure, enriched teaching, and strengthened the College’s industry and leadership engagement.
Ing. Nana Atta Poku Agyeman has supported the College of Engineering through financial contributions to the College of Engineering Endowment Fund, including a donation of GHS 50,000. In addition, he has facilitated internship opportunities for students and actively participated in fundraising efforts to strengthen the Endowment Fund. These contributions have supported student development, enhanced industry exposure, and reinforced the long-term sustainability of the College.
Ing. Kwasi Nyamekye has supported the College of Engineering through the provision of internship opportunities for students and the delivery of motivational and career-focused presentations. He has also worked closely with the College to strengthen entrepreneurship and innovation, contributing to the development of students who are not only technically competent but also enterprising and solution-driven
(Voa Lys Farms)
Mr. Victor Oppong Adjei made significant contributions to the Department of Crops and Soil Sciences of KNUST between 2014 and 2016, including the construction of a 4,000-layer poultry farm facility to support teaching and practical training. As Chairman of the Poultry Farmers Association, he also facilitated grant acquisition and signed a Memorandum of Understanding that enabled the Department to secure over GH₵4 million in funding for institutional development and research support.
(Managing Director, INRES)
After serving as National President of the KNUST Alumni Association, Dr. Tony Danklu has remained actively engaged with the Association, continuously offering his experience, guidance, and strategic insight to its leadership. He has also made substantial financial contributions, with particular focus on initiatives aimed at strengthening structures and driving increased engagement among young alumni.
Former Minister and Chairman,
(NPP Council of elders)
Hon. Hackman Owusu-Agyemang has consistently supported the KNUST Alumni Association by making himself accessible to alumni leadership and sharing his practical insights, experience, and guidance. As a pioneer contributor, he has made a very significant contributions to the KNUST Alumni Endowment Fund (KAEF) and the Endowment Fund of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, and remains an active participant in alumni programmes and activities.
Former Chairman,
(University Governing Council)
Dr. Kwame Saarah-Mensah has been a strong and consistent advocate for the KNUST Alumni Association, offering counsel, sharing his experience, and championing the Association’s interests and wellbeing. He currently serves on the Global Advisory Council, where he continues to provide strategic guidance and support.
Apraku is a young alumnus who has remained very dedicated to promoting alumni engagement, professional, and its development. His passion about fostering industry partnerships that create pathways for student internships, experiential learning, and alumni-driven initiatives that advance KNUST Alumni’s reputation for excellence, innovation, and leadership is phenomenal. He currently serves as head of the Editorial Board for the KNUST Alumni Association.
CEO – Smartline Publishing
Mr. Elliot Adjare has consistently participated in alumni activities and remains actively engaged in student development initiatives. He has also devoted his time to mentoring students, notably serving as a speaker at the 2nd edition of the Nyansapo Dialogue Series, where he shared practical insights on academic excellence and building impactful careers.
Mamfehene & Akuapem Kyidomhene
(Board Chairman, SSNIT)
Nana Ansah Sasraku III has, over the years, remained a pillar of support to the KNUST Alumni Association, offering invaluable practical knowledge, guidance, and consistent service. As Chief Patron, he has made significant contributions to both the University and the Association, including generous donations such as land, and has continuously supported alumni initiatives. He currently serves as Chief Patron of the Association and Chairman of the KNUST Alumni Endowment Fund (KAEF) Board of Trustees, and remains actively involved in alumni activities, inspiring both senior and young alumni alike.
Chief Director, Ministry of Roads & Highways
Mr. Samuel Akuaku serves as Chairman of the KNUST Alumni Spintex Chapter, where his leadership and commitment have transformed the Chapter into one of the most vibrant within the Association. Through sustained personal investment and in-kind support, he has significantly contributed to strengthening alumni engagement and activities.
Chairman, MCFSP
Prof. Ellis has been a strong and consistent voice for the Alumni Association, making his experience, knowledge, and counsel readily available to its leadership. His guidance, insights, and ideas have contributed significantly to the growth and strategic development of the Association.
Dr. Boateng is a dedicated member of the Alumni Association, He continues to demonstrate strong support for alumni activities. Notably, he offered his hotels as accommodation for alumni from various regions during the 2024 Congress in Koforidua, reflecting his commitment to fostering unity, hospitality, and active participation within the alumni community.
(Minister for the Interior/MP, Asawase)
Hon. Muntaka has demonstrated a strong commitment to giving back to the University, with particular focus on supporting infrastructure development, especially in student accommodation and related facilities. Despite his demanding schedule as a Minister of State, he consistently makes himself accessible to the Alumni Association and has made significant contributions to the Alumni Endowment Fund.
Despite his presidential candidacy, Ing. Agyepong has remained deeply committed to the KNUST Alumni Association, consistently participating in its activities and initiatives. He served as Chairman of the Ad Hoc Committee for the KNUST Alumni Endowment Fund, providing leadership and direction that guided the Fund’s operations until the official inauguration of its Board of Trustees.
(CEO, Arch Xenus Company Ltd)
Nana Akua has consistently participated in alumni activities and currently serves as a member of the KNUST Alumni Endowment Fund Board of Trustees, contributing to the governance and sustainability of the Fund.
(MD/CEO of Prudential Bank Limited)
Mr. Bernard Appiah Gyebi has been a consistent and generous supporter of the KNUST Alumni Association, providing significant sponsorship and support for its activities and programmes.
Top Dog Africa is a brand strategy and creative firm that has consistently supported the KNUST Alumni Association through effective project and event management. The firm has played a key role in planning alumni programmes, branding event venues, and coordinating alumni events through to successful completion.
CAL Bank PLC has been a generous and consistent supporter of the KNUST Alumni Association, providing sponsorship and support for the Association’s events and programmes.
MTN has been a staunch sponsor and supporter of KNUST Alumni Association activities, with a strong focus on mentorship and youth development. Through targeted support, MTN provides stationery, essential materials, and human resource expertise to mentor young people in areas identified by the Association.
Mobile Money Limited has also supported the KNUST Alumni Association by providing stationery, essential materials, and sponsorship for alumni mentorship programmes, contributing to the development of young alumni and students.
Through the support of its Managing Director, Mr. Yaw Abebrese Kankam, Bentry Company Limited has been a staunch supporter of KNUST Alumni Association programmes and has made significant investments into the KNUST Alumni Endowment Fund, contributing to the long-term sustainability of the Association.
The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has been a staunch and longstanding supporter of the KNUST Alumni Association, providing sponsorship for alumni programmes over the years. ECG has also made significant contributions to the KNUST Alumni Endowment Fund (KAEF), supporting the growth and sustainability of the Association.
The Energy Commission Ghana has been a strong and consistent partner of the KNUST Alumni Association, sponsoring events and programmes and supporting the Association across all its activities.
BPA has been a consistent partner and supporter of the KNUST Alumni Association, sponsoring alumni events and making significant contributions to the KNUST Alumni Endowment Fund, helping to strengthen the Association’s initiatives and impact.