The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has urged the government to grant extra financial clearance for KNUST to recruit additional academic and administrative staff. His call follows a recent five-year cyclical review by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), which highlighted the university’s unfavourable lecturer-student ratio. According to the Asantehene, the imbalance is putting significant pressure on lecturers and threatening the quality of teaching and learning at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology.
University Workforce Strained by High Enrolment
During the 59th Congregation of KNUST held on Saturday, November 29, 2025, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II — who serves as the Chancellor of the university — expressed concern over the heavy workload on lecturers. The ceremony saw 17,132 students graduate, including 14,764 undergraduates and 2,338 postgraduates, further underscoring the need for additional staff to maintain academic standards.
He stressed that addressing the staffing deficit is a “moral obligation” and essential to safeguarding the future of students and the nation.
Mentorship, Quality Education and National Development
Otumfuo highlighted the need for universities to provide more than classroom instruction. He emphasised mentorship as a key pillar in shaping Ghana’s future leaders, innovators and thinkers.
“Only then can we sustain the quality of education that prepares our graduates to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world,” he said.
He also called on President John Dramani Mahama to prioritise youth unemployment, describing it as a national concern that requires urgent intervention.
Warning Against Encroachment on KNUST Lands
The Asantehene delivered a firm warning regarding encroachment on KNUST lands, stressing that such actions would not be tolerated. He described the lands as a sacred legacy meant for future generations and vowed “decisive action” against individuals seeking to illegally occupy them.
“Any attempt to prey on the lands is an attack on that sacred trust,” he warned.
Government’s Commitment to KNUST Projects
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II expressed optimism about government initiatives aimed at developing KNUST’s infrastructure. These include:
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GH¢46 million released to continue work on the 18-year-old KNUST Teaching Hospital
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An additional $38 million committed to equip the hospital
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A $10 million project to construct new lecture theatres
He expressed confidence that these commitments would be fulfilled.
KNUST Research Fund and Academic Achievements
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Rita Akosua Dickson announced that the university has awarded GH¢1.5 million to 29 senior members to support impactful research. Since its establishment in 2016, the KNUST Research Fund has released GH¢7 million in grants.
She also noted that faculty members secured $8.9 million in external research grants, reflecting the institution’s strong research culture.
Advice to Graduates
Prof. Dickson encouraged graduates to embrace resilience as they transition into the workforce.
“Do not underestimate the power of starting small… always remember that giving up is never an option,” she advised.
FAQs
1. Why is KNUST requesting more staff?
The lecturer-student ratio is currently unfavourable, putting pressure on staff and affecting the quality of teaching.
2. Who made the appeal to the government?
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who is also the Chancellor of KNUST.
3. What major projects has the government committed to?
The completion and equipping of the KNUST Teaching Hospital and the construction of new lecture theatres.
4. How many students graduated at the 59th Congregation?
A total of 17,132 students.
