The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) School of Business (KSB) has launched its 20th Anniversary celebrations, themed “20 Years of Excellence in Business Education: Building Capability and Resilience for Sustainable Development.”
The event brought together academia, industry leaders, alumni, and students to reflect on the institution’s two-decade journey.
Professor Charles Ofosu Marfo, Provost of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, representing the Vice-Chancellor, commended KSB for its commitment to academic excellence and industry relevance.
"From its humble beginnings, KSB has evolved into a premier business school, producing graduates who contribute significantly to Ghana’s economic growth,” he stated.
He also called for support in establishing world-class training centers and expanding opportunities through the Endowment Fund.
Dean of KSB, Professor Ahmed Agyapong, highlighted the school’s achievements since its establishment in 2005.
"We began with eight lecturers and two PhDs. Today, we have over 54 faculty members, including five full professors, and have produced an average of 1,000 postgraduate graduates annually over the last decade,” he said. He further emphasized KSB's role in faculty development for Ghana’s technical universities and its leadership in research and innovation.
Professor Agyapong acknowledged challenges such as faculty retention and the need for enhanced employability skills among graduates. To address these, KSB is pushing for competency-based training in entrepreneurship, IT, and technical skills.
He appealed for support from the government, industry, and alumni to establish state-of-the-art ICT and AI labs and contribute to the Endowment Fund.
Mr. Patrick Kwasi Appiah, CEO of Osons Chemist Ltd., emphasized the role of business schools in developing creative, critical thinking, and ethical leaders.
He called for stronger collaborations between academia and industry to ensure graduates are prepared for the workforce and contribute to national and global development.
Professor Nathaniel Boso, former Dean of KSB, delivered a congratulatory message on behalf of Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Minister for Finance and KSB alumnus. He praised KSB for fostering leadership, innovation, and a sense of community.
"KSB provided me with the tools to think critically, the confidence to challenge conventional wisdom, and the discipline to pursue excellence," he said.
The celebration included a panel discussion on "Navigating the Dynamic Business Environment: Strategic Priorities for Emerging Businesses."
Professor Felicity Asiedu-Appiah, Chairperson of the 20th Anniversary Planning Committee, outlined planned events, including an exhibition, job fair, alumni homecoming, and sustainability initiative.
"This celebration is about strategizing for the next 20 years," she emphasized, inviting stakeholder participation.