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Tag: KNUST

  • KNUST set to offer AI courses to students for 2026/2027 academic year

    KNUST set to offer AI courses to students for 2026/2027 academic year

    Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology has committed to enhancing its operations through the application and inclusion of modern technology.

    As a result, students at the university are expected to take courses in Artificial Intelligence (AI) starting next academic year.

    The school’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Rita Akosua Dickson, shared the news at the 3-day 11th Summer School of the University held on the theme “Responsible AI in Education,” where she stressed that the students will earn credits for the course while gaining the essential skills required for the technological revolution.

    “This micro-credential course, which will have 1 credit hour will equip graduates with the knowledge and ethical grounding needed to apply AI responsibly across all disciplines,” Prof. Dickson said.

    The Vice Chancellor urged universities the guide AI development to reflect local realities and foster sustainable learning.

    Adding his quote to the development, founder and CEO of MinoHealth AI Labs, Darlington Ahiale Akogo, emphasized academia’s moral responsibility in AI innovation.

    “Academia must not only teach AI but guide its conscience, and if we want AI systems that understand our classrooms and cultures, then the research and data must come from our own academic spaces,” Mr. Akogo said.

    He advocated for partnerships among universities, industry leaders and policymakers to promote ethical and locally appropriate AI solutions.

    In addition, a senior representative from UNESCO’s Section for Technology and AI in Education, Dr. Shafika Isaacs, also emphasized the importance of ethics in AI.

    “Universities must become the testing ground for ethical innovation the space where we ask, ‘What kind of intelligence are we really building, and for whom?’” she quizzed.

    In line with this development, the Ministry of Education announced plans to implement a subject-specific Artificial Intelligence App in Senior High Schools to enhance the delivery of the new Senior High Schools curriculum, without compromising the ethical and cultural values of Ghana. 

    According to a statement shared on the Facebook page of the Ghana Education Service, the design of Apps, which aim to support over 68,000 teachers in delivering the new curriculum to over 1.4 million learners, was co-created by the Ghana Education Service (GES), the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA), the National Teaching Council (NTC), the National School Inspectorate Authority (NaSIA) and the Centre for National Distance Learning and Open Schooling (CENDLOS) and Playlab Al with support from Transforming Teaching, Education & Learning (T-TEL) and Mastercard Foundation.

    “Built on Ghana’s own curriculum materials, including teacher manuals, learner resources, and frameworks for national values, gender equality and social inclusion, the Subject-Specific-Apps are designed to help teachers plan lessons and develop assessments more efficiently while ensuring alignment with national standards,” a part of the statement indicated.

    It further stated that the Subject-Specific Apps are being introduced through the weekly Professional Learning Community (PLC) sessions organized by GES in all 712 SHS. 

    Adding that, these sessions provide a platform for teachers to collaborate, test the tools, and provide feedback ensuring that Al supports teachers and does not replace their expertise.

    The Ministry has therefore outlined a four-phase testing process to ensure the Subject-Specific Apps are effective and appropriate. This includes a Technical Accuracy Review to verify curriculum alignment, an Educational Quality Review to assess pedagogical soundness, a User Experience Review to pilot functionality in schools and a Regional Testing to evaluate readiness for nationwide implementation.

    In 2023, the Ghana Education Service, under the leadership of former Minister of Education Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, launched a digital platform known as the Learning Passport as part of efforts to integrate technology into the country’s education system.

    The initiative was designed for pupils from Basic 1 to 3 to enhance learning both in and outside the classroom. Through the Learning Passport, children could access their syllabus online with support from their teachers, while parents were given tools to monitor their progress step by step.

    At the launch, some students demonstrated how the platform worked. Senior Lecturer at the University of Ghana, Dr. Kofi Sarpong Adu-Manu, described it as Ghana’s first digital initiative tailored to the needs of pupils at the basic level.

    “You believe that in our homes, the 2 and 3-year-olds are chasing after phones because their cartoons are resting on our digital infrastructure. So they are already having a feeling for digital technologies. So we can take them out. We want to introduce them, and get them to play with it and then they grow up with it,” he said.

    He emphasized that children were already exposed to digital devices at home, and the Learning Passport provided a structured way to channel this interest into meaningful learning.

    The audience was guided through the sign-up process on the website, Ghana.learningpassport.org, which required basic parental information to ensure the platform was used safely under adult supervision. Parents could also track their children’s academic performance through the system’s analytics.

    The official launch featured a symbolic moment where a pupil from Haatso Presby Basic School, Tracy, joined the minister to unveil the program.

    Sharing her excitement about the initiative, she said, , “I am very happy to be here today for launching of the learning passport. Learning passport has really helped me and i recommend it to you.”.

    Dr. Adutwum echoed her words, describing it as a great opportunity provided through collaboration with UNICEF.

    “What better way to launch this program with recommendation from a student, the end user. Today I am excited to join Tracy in launching the Learning passport. Consider it duely launched by Tracy and the Minister for Education,” the former minister said.

    The Learning Passport was developed by UNICEF and rolled out in Ghana through a partnership between the Ministry of Education and the Centre for National Distance Learning and Open Schooling (CENDLOS). The platform evolved from the President’s Special Initiative on Distance Learning (PSI-DL), established in 2002 to merge ICT with education.

    At the time, Dr. Adutwum urged headteachers to embrace technology to strengthen teaching and improve cognitive skills, with the broader goal of producing a generation of critical thinkers capable of applying knowledge beyond memorization.

  • Study reveals silent spread of STIs among young Ghanaian women

    Study reveals silent spread of STIs among young Ghanaian women

    Several young  Ghanaian women are inadvertently living with reproductive and sexually transmitted infections.

    This is according to a new national study led by Dr. Laud Anthony Basing from the Department of Medical Diagnostics at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi.

    He described the results as a wake-up call to improve sexual health awareness and routine testing among young women.

    “These infections are spreading quietly because most people don’t show signs of being sick,” he explained. “We can’t wait for symptoms before acting. Early testing must become a normal part of healthcare for young women.”

    At the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), researchers presented findings from the study involving close to 3,000 young women and adolescent girls aged 15–24 from nine Ghanaian regions.

    Participants came from diverse backgrounds, including schools, universities, sex worker networks, and head porter communities.

    The research discovered that over 40 percent had at least one infection, though most were unaware of it due to the absence of symptoms.

    Candida-related yeast infections were the most prevalent, impacting more than half of those tested. Chlamydia trachomatis ranked next, affecting roughly one-quarter, with additional detections of gonorrhoea and trichomoniasis.

    He cautioned that untreated infections can lead to long-term problems such as infertility and pregnancy complications.

    The study also highlights how limited access to testing and open conversations about sexual health are allowing infections to go undetected among Ghana’s youth.

    “This is not just research; it’s about protecting the future of young women and giving them the tools to take charge of their health,” he added.

    In 2023, researchers from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) uncovered intriguing insights into the risk factors for diabetes and hypertension in rural populations.

    As reported in the February 2024 issue of the journal Health Open Research, individuals engaged in fishing and farming, along with students and apprentices, showed lower probabilities of developing diabetes.

    The 2022 study, which involved over 2,500 participants, focused on the Asante Akim North Municipality in Ghana’s Ashanti region, examining factors linked to hypertension and diabetes.

    Additionally, the research found that those who consumed snacks during work hours had a decreased likelihood of developing diabetes.

    This surprising result indicates that certain dietary practices may help reduce the risk of this chronic disease.

    The study’s conclusions challenge the common belief that diet, alcohol consumption, tobacco use, and physical activity are major risk factors for hypertension and diabetes in rural settings.

    Instead, the research highlighted sociodemographic factors like age, gender, and marital status, along with inadequate health screenings, as key predictors of these conditions.

    The findings emphasize the critical need for better health education and comprehensive screening programs to manage hypertension and diabetes in rural areas.

    Raising awareness and ensuring access to regular health check-ups could be crucial for early diagnosis and treatment, thereby alleviating the impact of these chronic illnesses.

    The researchers urge health authorities and policymakers to act swiftly to address the sociodemographic determinants and implement extensive health screening initiatives to protect rural health.

    The study’s authors include Dr. Joseph Kwasi Brenyah, Prof. Yeetey Enuameh, Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye, Dr. Francis Asenso-Boadi, Mr. Roland Miah, Dr. Peter Twum, and Dr. Ebenezer Dassah.

    Additional contributors are Mr. Samuel Frimpong Odoom, Dr. Thomas Peprah Agyekum, Dr. Nana Ayisi-Boateng, Mr. Richard Adade, Prof. Fred Stephen Sarfo, and Dr. Arti Singh.

    Last year, Dr. Isaac Okyere, a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Surgery, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), advised against early relationships for tertiary students.

    He emphasized that the heart, being an emotional organ, can weaken under stress, increasing the risk of hypertension.

    Dr. Okyere shared these insights during a monthly podcast organized by the E-Learning Centre of KNUST, focusing on “Heart Health: The Heart of Man and Total Wellbeing.”

    Early emotional involvement often leads to heartbreaks, which can significantly impact students’ emotional and psychological well-being, affecting their academic performance.

    “There is much life ahead of you. If you have the so-called “broken heart syndrome”, you are putting stress on the heart. One can go through and have psychiatric issues while another may not feel anything. Guard your heart with all diligence. Be careful with your relationship here on campus. There is so much stress awaiting you outside campus in terms of work, and marriage among others,” he advised.

    Students have been cautioned against engaging in activities like the “September rush,” where returning students seek romantic relationships with incoming female freshmen.

    It has been reported that some students are already living as couples on campus, highlighting the prevalence of relationships among the student body.

    Recent research from the National Library of Medicine in 2021 revealed concerning statistics among Ghanaian students in secondary educational institutions. The study found that 19.91% of students were hypertensive, while 26.07% were prehypertensive.

    These findings suggest a potential rise in hypertension prevalence among the adult population in the future if preventive measures are not implemented.

    Dr. Isaac Okyere emphasized the importance of youth managing their diet, monitoring glucose, cholesterol, blood pressure levels, and reducing alcohol consumption and smoking habits.

  • Dismissed KNUST SHS Assistant Headmaster to be arrested – Gender Ministry

    Dismissed KNUST SHS Assistant Headmaster to be arrested – Gender Ministry

    The dismissed Assistant Headmaster of KNUST Senior High School (SHS), Charles Akwasi Aidoo, who was caught on camera fondling a female student, is now facing an imminent arrest.

    Speaking to the media, the Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, indicated that her ministry is working to ensure Mr Charles Akwasi Aidoo is arrested in the coming days.

    “The Recent one is the report of the female student at KNUST with the assistant headmaster. Even though GES through the school dismissed him, we are collaborating with the police to effect the arrest of the perpetrator,” she added.

    On Monday, September 30, the Ghana Education Service (GES) announced the removal of the Assistant Headmaster (Academic) of KNUST Senior High School from office over an alleged misconduct.


    He was spotted in a viral video with a female student in a compromised position. In response, management of GES released a statement declaring their stance on the matter.


    “Management views this matter with utmost seriousness. In line with our commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the teaching profession and ensuring the safety and welfare of students under our care, Mr. Aidoo has already been removed from office, and prohibited from going to the school while thorough investigations are being carried out,” the statement read.


    The GES assured the general public, stakeholders, parents, and students that due process will be followed, and the appropriate disciplinary action will be taken in accordance with the code of conduct of the Ghana Education Service.


    The case involving the dismissed Assistant Headmaster and the female student comes at a time when many senior high school graduates, especially females, have declared their intention to live a promiscuous lifestyle after school.


    Several viral videos that have surfaced also show some female Senior High School graduates announcing their intentions to date married men. Reacting to these videos, the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) cautioned SHS graduates against posting indecent and irresponsible content on social media, as that could damage their prospects.


    In a statement issued in Accra on Thursday, September 25, the agency noted, “Irresponsible content can severely damage one’s academic, career, and professional prospects”.


    Additionally, the Authority such actions could pave way for cyberbullying, harassment, grooming, and other forms of digital exploitation.
    “As Ghana continues to progress in its digital transformation, the CSA emphasises the importance of promoting positive digital citizenship among the youth.”
    Meanwhile, the Ministry for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations has announced a decline in financial losses from cybercrime this year, despite rising online threats.
    Speaking at the launch of the 2025 edition of the National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM) on Wednesday at the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) Auditorium, the sector Minister, Samuel Nartey George, disclosed that from January to June 2025, the country recorded GHS14.9 million in cybercrime from GHS 23.3 million in the previous year.
    Online scams, fraud, blackmail, and unauthorized access attributes to the majority of cybercrime-related financial losses in Ghana, according to the Minister. The Minister cited statistics from the Cyber Security Authority to support his disclosure. The Minister added that, the need for a safer and more accountable digital environment requires collective efforts.
    “Statistics from the Cyber Security Authority indicate that Ghana recorded cybercrime-related financial losses of GHS 23.3 million in 2024 and GHS 14.9 million in the first half of 2025, mainly through online fraud, blackmail, and unauthorized access,” he stated.
    This year’s campaign, themed “Building a Safe, Informed, and Accountable Digital Space,” focuses on countering misinformation, disinformation, and deepfake manipulation. The Minister noted that Ghana’s internet penetration stood at 70 percent, with 24.3 million users and 7.95 million active social media identities, placing the country 15th globally in social media adoption. He cautioned that “the same connectivity that drives innovation also provides an avenue for exploitation by cybercriminals.”
    Mr. George disclosed that his Ministry was working to amend the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038) to strengthen regulations that balance innovation with user protection. He further commended the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) and the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) for recent joint operations, including a crackdown in Tema that led to 39 arrests, as well as earlier operations between May and July 2025 that netted 65 suspects linked to sophisticated fraud schemes.
    “Let me sound a warning to those exploiting foreign nationals to perpetrate cyber fraud: we are on your trail, and we will bring you to justice,” he declared.
    The Minister also underscored the role of the media in safeguarding Ghana’s digital ecosystem, urging journalists to raise awareness on issues such as cyberbullying, fraud, and online exploitation. “This campaign cannot succeed without your active participation,” he stressed.
    Adding to the discussion, the Director-General of the Cyber Security Authority, Mr. Divine Selase Agbeti, highlighted the scale of the threat. Reported cyber incidents rose from 1,317 cases in the first half of 2024 to 2,008 cases in the same period this year. Online fraud alone accounted for 36 percent of reported cases, cyberbullying 25 percent, online blackmail 14 percent, unauthorized access 12 percent, and information disclosure 9 percent.
    He noted that financial losses increased by 17 percent year-on-year, reaching GHS 14.9 million in the first half of 2025, with fraud and impersonation responsible for more than 94 percent of the figure.
    The Dean of the School of Engineering Sciences at the University of Ghana, Ing. Prof. Elsie Effah Kaufmann, also addressed the event, stressing the role of academia in Ghana’s cybersecurity agenda. She described digital transformation—through mobile payments, telemedicine, online education, and smart governance—as a driver of growth, but warned that cyberspace remains unsafe.
    Sharing her personal experience of being falsely reported dead on social media days earlier, Prof. Kaufmann cautioned that “the very technologies that connect us and drive progress can also be exploited to undermine trust, disrupt economies, and erode the rights and freedoms of citizens.”
    She highlighted three areas where academia can bolster cybersecurity: research, capacity building, and innovation.
    In connection to cyberattacks, Sam George announced plans to roll out tailored Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions in five key Ministries.
    According to a post shared on the ministry’s Facebook page, the Honourable Minister mentioned that recent cyberattacks had targeted multiple government portals, with attempts made to manipulate HR databases.
    ‎He attributed these breaches largely to poor personal cyber hygiene, such as logging into official email accounts on unsecured public devices.
    Speaking at a stakeholder session on Artificial Intelligence (AI) readiness for selected Ministries, held today at the Ministry of Finance, the minister outlined a phased rollout targeting five priority Ministries involving, Finance, Interior, Lands and Natural Resources, Fisheries and Aquaculture including the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations with AI solutions tailored to each institution’s operational needs.
    Mr George is therefore poised to collaborate with the Cyber Security Authority to enforce stronger security protocols, enhance user training, and ensure compliance with national standards.
    ‎He stressed that AI deployment would be preceded by assessments of each institution’s digital maturity and would be designed to reduce inefficiencies, digitize workflows, and cut operational delays.
    ‎The deployment, he noted, would require data standardisation and full utilisation of Ghana’s National Data Centre.
    Highlighting cost-saving measures, the Minister cited the success of centralised licensing arrangements with Microsoft, which have already saved the country tens of millions of dollars. He disclosed that similar consolidation of enterprise software contracts was planned to eliminate wasteful spending.
    ‎On infrastructure, he announced that the National Data Centre is due for an upgrade to meet current and future hosting demands. Funding discussions with the Ministry of Finance are ongoing to ensure timely completion of the project.
    ‎The meeting also reviewed the summary of the National AI Strategy and identified use-cases for the five pilot ministries, with implementation slated for 2026. The Minister encouraged the Ministry of Finance to allocate a dedicated budget line for AI deployment in the 2026 fiscal year.
    A month ago, Sam George highlighted Ghana’s commitment to a digital future, emphasizing the country’s dedication to fostering economic growth, innovation, and job creation. He also pointed out that MTN’s decision to establish its second AI lab in Africa plays a key role in this vision, with Ghana being selected as the hub.
    He added that Ghana has been selected as the location for MTN’s second artificial intelligence (AI) lab in Africa. According to him, the decision to establish the second lab in Ghana underscores the nation’s growing influence in AI research and technological innovation.
    Sam George described the new lab as a “center of excellence,” aimed at driving advancements in AI, machine learning, and digital transformation. The opening of the AI lab is anticipated to foster collaboration among tech leaders, researchers, and innovators, further strengthening Ghana’s expanding digital ecosystem.
    The Honourable Minister had also noted that the government of Ghana has signed strategic partnerships with technological giants Huawei and Google.
    Updating the members of the general public on the various initiatives taken by his ministry to develop the communication sector as part of the Government Accountability Series in, August, he made this information known.
    “In the period under review, we have signed strategic partnerships with Huawei and Google. We entered into a formal partnership arrangement with these technology giants to drive deeper integration between policy research and practical innovation,” Sam Nartey George said.
    He noted that these partnerships will see both Google and Huawei train 100,000 beneficiaries each under the One Million Coders Programme.
    “This represents a deliberate move to prepare students for the evolving demands of the digital technology economy under President John Dramani Mahama,” the Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation Minister further remarked.
    Mr Sam Nartey George expressed gratitude to the two organisations and clarified that the programme will be both online and in person.
    “My gratitude goes to both technology giants, Huawei and Google for their belief in the John Dramani Mahama vision. This Google certificate and Huawei training programme are going to be a mix of in-person and online training programmes and so we will be rolling out the programme very soon in every constituency in the country to allow for people to take this training.”
    He added, “the beauty of the Google 100,000 training is Google already has its AI research lab in Ghana, and what we are trying to do is train the people using Google’s certification Programme and then, on the back of that, get them employed to work with Google or any of its partners and affiliates.

  • KNUST declares 2 former students persona non-grata over campus misconduct

    KNUST declares 2 former students persona non-grata over campus misconduct

    The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has banned two former students, Ransford Fosu-Boateng, also known as Scammer Baby, and Raphael Appiah Owusu from coming anywhere near the campus.

    According to the school, the two have been causing trouble for a while and pose a threat to the peace and safety of the university.

    In a statement from the school’s Registrar, it was revealed that Ransford was kicked out in March 2022, and Raphael was also dismissed at the end of the 2023/2024 academic year.

    Even after they were sacked, the two kept sneaking into the school’s hostels, causing disturbances, harassing other students, and ignoring school rules.

    The university says they are no longer students and should not be seen hanging around the school.

    “They are banned from campus and should be treated as trespassers if found anywhere on university grounds,” the statement said.

    KNUST has also warned current students to stay away from the two. Anyone caught helping them or giving them access to school facilities will face serious punishment.

    Read statement below:

  • Enhance cybersecurity measures to safeguard patient information – KNUST Health Provost

    Enhance cybersecurity measures to safeguard patient information – KNUST Health Provost

    Professor Christian Agyare, Provost of the College of Health Sciences at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, has called for enhanced cybersecurity and stricter patient confidentiality measures as healthcare facilities transition to digital records.

    He underscored the need to strengthen systems against cyber threats and data breaches to protect sensitive patient information.

    Speaking at the hospital’s 2024 End-of-Year Performance Review Conference in Kumasi, Professor Agyare urged the government to invest in cutting-edge technology to improve Ghana’s healthcare infrastructure.

    “I commend the government’s forward-thinking in transitioning to a paperless system. However, I urge a heightened focus on cybersecurity and patient confidentiality.

    “The National Health Service in the UK recently experienced a cyberattack, and we must take proactive steps to prevent a similar breach in our system,” he cautioned.

    He highlighted the hospital’s consistent improvement in patient satisfaction and reaffirmed the commitment to sustaining these gains.

    He attributed this progress to the strategic use of Internally-Generated Funds, which have been invested in acquiring critical medical equipment for specialized treatments and introducing initiatives that enhance patient care.

  • KNUST study shows lower prostate cancer risk in older men who take green tea

    KNUST study shows lower prostate cancer risk in older men who take green tea

    A recent study conducted by researchers at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) suggests that older men who consume green tea regularly may have a lower risk of prostate cancer, alongside improved weight and cholesterol levels.

    Led by Dr. Emmanuel Amankwah Ntim from the Department of Physiology at the KNUST School of Medical Sciences, the research examined over 400 men aged 40 and above, dividing them into two groups: those who drank green tea and those who did not.

    The study assessed their weight, cholesterol levels, and PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) levels—a key marker for prostate cancer risk.

    The findings, published in the Journal BMC Nutrition, revealed that regular green tea drinkers were more likely to maintain a healthy weight and better cholesterol levels. Additionally, men aged 60 and above who consumed green tea displayed lower PSA levels, suggesting a potential reduced risk of prostate cancer.

    This trend, however, was not observed in younger participants. The research also indicated a link between lower weight and reduced PSA levels among older men.

    While the results point to a possible protective effect of green tea against prostate cancer in older men, the study does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Instead, it highlights a strong association that warrants further investigation.

    Surge in prostate cancer cases

    The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has said that prostate and liver cancers are among the leading causes of death in the country.

    In 2022, a total of 2,395 cases of prostate cancer were recorded in the country, with 1,233 deaths, representing 52 per cent mortality while liver cancer affected a total of 2,656 men in 2022, with 2,390 deaths, representing 90 per cent mortality.

    Data also suggests that only 20 percent of men above 40 have had a prostate cancer screening while 60% of the cases are mostly presented at advanced stages.

    Stakeholders at a maiden National Prostate Cancer Dialogue in 2024 reiterated the need for prostate cancer treatment to be captured on the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to reduce the cost burden on patients.

    There are less than one hundred urologist-specialists in the country, influencing treatment gaps at the district and regional levels.

    Professor of Urology and Head of Department of Surgery at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital and President of the Ghana Association of Urological Surgeons, Professor James Edward Mensah, is calling for the training of more specialists in the discipline.

  • MDF, Tenglong Group partner KNUST to construct 20,000-room hostel to fix accommodation challenges

    MDF, Tenglong Group partner KNUST to construct 20,000-room hostel to fix accommodation challenges

    The Minerals Development Fund (MDF) and Tenglong Group have initiated discussions with the management of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) to develop a 20,000-room hostel facility to address the university’s growing student accommodation crisis.

    Speaking on the project, the Director of Operations at MDF, Mr. Frank Kwesi Hayford, revealed that the initial plan was to construct an 8,000-room hostel, but the proposal was expanded to 20,000 rooms due to the increasing demand for student housing.

    He emphasized that MDF and its financial partners are currently in talks with KNUST’s leadership to finalize the next steps for the project’s implementation.

    “To ensure the smooth execution of this project, we want to establish a joint committee between the Minerals Development Fund and the university. Our goal is to have the first batch of students housed in the new hostel by 2027,” he stated.

    Expressing the university’s appreciation, KNUST Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Professor David Asamoah, commended the government for prioritizing student housing. He reaffirmed KNUST’s commitment to working closely with MDF and Tenglong Group to ensure the project’s timely completion.

    Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Professor David Asamoah
    Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Professor David Asamoah.

    “This initiative will significantly bridge the gap in student accommodation and ease the challenges many students face in securing a place to stay on campus,” he noted.

    Mr. David Johnson Attafuah, Director of Administration and Human Resources at MDF, explained that the project aligns with the government’s “Bed for All” policy, which seeks to provide adequate on-campus accommodation for tertiary students.

    Mr. David Johnson Attafuah, Director of Administration and Human Resources at MDF
    Mr. David Johnson Attafuah, Director of Administration and Human Resources at MDF.

    He further stated that MDF plans to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with KNUST to establish long-term collaboration, including funding specific projects within the College of Engineering to support the university’s critical needs.

    With this partnership, KNUST is set to take a major step toward resolving its student housing deficit and improving campus living conditions.

  • KNUST murder case: Court adjourns trial to April 1

    KNUST murder case: Court adjourns trial to April 1

    A Kumasi court has adjourned the case of the KNUST student, Daniel Tuffour, accused of murdering Joana Yabane, to April 1, 2025.

    During the latest court session, prosecutors informed the judge that the case docket had been forwarded to the Attorney-General’s office for legal advice.

    As a result, the court ruled that Tuffour should be remanded until the next hearing.

    Tuffour, who was first remanded on February 28, is facing intense scrutiny as the case continues to gain public attention. The tragic incident has left the KNUST community in shock, with students and faculty closely following developments.

    Authorities have assured the public that justice will be served as investigations progress.

  • Galamsey endangering honey production – KNUST researchers

    Galamsey endangering honey production – KNUST researchers

    Experts in veterinary medicine at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) have expressed deep concern about the harmful impact of illegal mining, or Galamsey, on bee populations.

    Speaking at the inauguration of the Bee Health Club at KNUST on March 15, Dr. William Tasiameh, who leads the School of Veterinary Medicine, emphasized that the destruction of forests caused by illegal mining is severely affecting bee habitats and limiting their food sources, putting their survival at risk.

    “Bees need trees, and if the environment is being destroyed, as seen in the case of Galamsey, it becomes a serious issue. We are cutting down trees and destroying our forests, which poses a significant challenge to the survival of bees. They need space, trees, flowers, and a conducive environment to reproduce, just as nature intended.”

    Dr. William Tasiameh emphasized the dangers of water contamination from illegal mining, noting its harmful effects on honey quality.

    “The major part of honey is water. Bees drink from these water bodies that are heavily polluted through illegal mining operations… It affects the livelihoods and survival of these bees”.

    Meanwhile, bee farmer Donyina Effah Kwasi Opoku appealed to the government to introduce policies that would make beekeeping attractive to young people by offering training and resources. He underscored its potential as a profitable industry.

    Adding to the discussion, Prof. Benjamin Emikpe, Dean of KNUST’s School of Veterinary Medicine, stressed the need to integrate beekeeping into education to ensure the long-term growth of honey production.

    “For sustainable honey production in Ghana, it is important to engage the youth early. Veterinarians, as well as students from the College of Education and the College of Agriculture, should be encouraged to understand the value of honey and the importance of bee health.”

    The Bee Health Club, which champions bee welfare and sustainable honey production, is supported by the UK’s Agency for Plant and Animal Health.

  • Society must embrace ex-convicts – Fmr KNUST vice-chancellor

    Society must embrace ex-convicts – Fmr KNUST vice-chancellor

    A former Vice-Chancellor of KNUST, Emeritus Professor Kwasi Kwafo Adarkwa, has underscored the need to provide opportunities for all individuals, including former inmates, to reintegrate and make meaningful contributions to society.

    During an interview on Channel One TV, he discussed themes from his book, Against All Odds, drawing from personal encounters that shaped his perspective on rehabilitation and inclusion.

    Reflecting on his early years, he recounted growing up in an environment where he frequently interacted with individuals who had been in detention.

    These experiences reinforced his belief that society should not permanently define people by their past mistakes but should instead support their reintegration.

    He pointed out that former prisoners often face rejection, which hinders their ability to rebuild their lives. However, he stressed that they possess the capacity to overcome their past and become valuable members of their communities.

    Describing his childhood in Koforidua, he recalled how the central barracks, which housed detainees, was located in the heart of the town. He and others regularly crossed paths with those held there, even sharing public bathhouses with them.

    “We lived with those who had been on remand. We really feared nobody. The central barracks, Koforidua, was right in the middle of the town, and the cells were in the middle of the barracks.

    “We saw them every day, we took our baths with them in the public bath houses. The essence is that don’t write those people [prisoners] off. They can also shine to become people of influence in society and useful to society. That is why I wrote the book,” he shared.

  • Court to hear KNUST murder case on March 17 after remand of suspect

    Court to hear KNUST murder case on March 17 after remand of suspect

    The Prempeh District Court has scheduled March 17, 2025, for the next hearing in the murder case of Joana Deladem Yabani, a student of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).

    The decision comes after the court remanded the accused, 21-year-old final-year student Daniel Tuffuor, into police custody to allow further investigations.

    “The court has remanded the suspect into custody. The next hearing is scheduled for 17th March 2025. The Ghana Police Service and authorities in KNUST will continue to work diligently to ensure justice is served,” parts of the statement read.

    In a statement released by the Office of the Registrar, KNUST confirmed that investigators have made progress in the case.

    According to the report Police and university security have recovered Joana’s laptop and mobile phone, which were found concealed behind the Flint Hostel.

    This discovery was made possible through CCTV footage analysis from the hostel’s security system.

    Authorities believe these devices could serve as key evidence in the prosecution.

    During the court proceedings, prosecutors requested more time to continue their inquiries, leading to the suspect’s remand. The court approved the request, setting the next hearing date for mid-March.

    The incident has left the university community in shock, with students and faculty demanding a thorough investigation and justice for Joana.

    Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies have assured the public of their commitment to resolving the case and holding those responsible accountable.

  • KNUST: Police investigate 21-year-old boyfriend in connection with death of Joana Yabani

    KNUST: Police investigate 21-year-old boyfriend in connection with death of Joana Yabani

    The Ashanti Regional Police Command has launched an investigation into the death of Miss Joana Deladem Yabani, a final-year Biological Sciences student at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), whose lifeless body was discovered near the university’s Disability and Rehabilitation Centre.

    A key suspect, 21-year-old Daniel Tuffuor, reportedly in a relationship with the deceased, has been taken into custody for questioning.

    Confirming the development, the Ashanti Regional Police Commander, DCOP Emmanuel Teye-Cudjoe, revealed that CCTV footage captured Tuffuor on campus, leading to his apprehension.

    “We have identified the suspect through CCTV footage on the KNUST campus, and he is currently assisting us with our investigations,” DCOP Cudjoe stated.

    Authorities are stepping up security measures in response to the incident, with the police announcing a 24-hour surveillance operation across the KNUST campus.

    “We are increasing our security presence on campus with round-the-clock patrols to ensure the safety of students and staff,” DCOP Cudjoe added.

    The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has assured the university management of ongoing efforts to maintain order and security. He personally spoke with the Vice-Chancellor, Professor (Mrs.) Rita Akosua Dickson, to offer his support.

    Expressing her distress over the tragic loss, Professor Dickson acknowledged the IGP’s swift intervention.

    “Waking up to such horrible news was truly saddening, and losing a student in this manner is heartbreaking, especially for parents. We are grateful to the IGP for his swift intervention and the measures that have been put in place,” she remarked.

    Investigations are ongoing as authorities work to uncover the circumstances surrounding Miss Yabani’s death.

  • 4th-year KNUST student found dead on campus

    4th-year KNUST student found dead on campus

    The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) is mourning the unexpected passing of Joana Deladem Yabani, a final-year Biological Sciences student.

    According to a statement from university authorities, her body was found near the Disability and Rehabilitation Centre around 5:00 a.m. on February 27, 2025.

    After campus security received the report, they quickly moved her remains to the University Health Services, where medical professionals confirmed her death.

    “The University has officially informed her family, and we extend our deepest condolences to them during this difficult time,” the statement read.

    An extensive investigation is underway to uncover the details surrounding the tragic event. The effort, involving KNUST Internal Security, the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), and the University Health Services, seeks to determine the cause of death.

    The university administration has reiterated its strong commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of students, faculty, and the entire campus community.

    Additionally, they have urged everyone to stay composed and refrain from sharing unverified information that may cause unnecessary concern.

    “We wish to assure the university community and the public of our unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of all students and staff,” the statement emphasized.

  • Food researchers at KNUST uncover unsafe additives in tomato paste

    Food researchers at KNUST uncover unsafe additives in tomato paste

    A study conducted by food scientists at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has uncovered the presence of a banned chemical in certain tomato paste brands sold in Ghana.

    The substance, Erythrosine also known as Red Dye No. 3—is commonly used as a color additive in candies, beverages, and other food products. While it may appear on packaging as “Number 3,” its use in tomato paste is strictly prohibited by Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) due to potential health risks.

    The research, carried out in Kumasi and Accra, sought to assess the quality of tomato concentrates available on the market. Eight brands that met standard labeling requirements were analyzed.

    Although all samples exhibited the expected red to dark-red color, thick consistency, and tomato flavor, discrepancies were found in their composition.

    Some brands contained less than the required 24% natural tomato content, while others tested positive for starch—an ingredient not permitted in tomato paste.

    Alarmingly, Erythrosine was detected in two of the sampled brands despite not being declared on their labels. Starch levels varied between 1g/100g and 24g/100g, raising further concerns about product authenticity.

    The study’s findings, published in the International Journal of Food Science, come at a time when global health regulators are tightening restrictions on harmful food additives.

    In January, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) imposed a complete ban on Erythrosine, giving manufacturers two years to eliminate it from food products.

    Lead researcher Dr. Abena Boakye urged Ghana’s FDA to expand its oversight beyond tomato paste and ensure that other food items, such as candies and beverages, do not contain the prohibited dye.

    She emphasized the need for stricter enforcement of food safety regulations and called for further research to protect consumers from harmful substances in processed foods.

    The researchers also recommended that stakeholders in the food industry take immediate action to improve quality standards, ensuring that all tomato-based products and other packaged foods meet health and safety guidelines.

  • KNUST food research scientists detect No. 3, a banned substance in some tomato paste

    KNUST food research scientists detect No. 3, a banned substance in some tomato paste

    Scientists from the Department of Food Science and Technology at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) have found a harmful banned substance in some tomato pastes sold in Ghana.

    The substance, called Erythrosine or Red Dye No. 3, is used to add color to foods like toffees, candies, and drinks. It is sometimes labeled as “Number 3.” However, Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) does not allow it in tomato paste because it can be dangerous to health.

    Another banned ingredient, starch, was also found in some tomato paste samples during the research. In Ghana, tomato paste and tomato mix are popular because they are a cheaper and more convenient alternative to fresh tomatoes, especially when fresh ones are expensive or out of season.

    The study, conducted in Kumasi and Accra, checked the quality of different brands of tomato paste. Eight brands that met labeling requirements were tested. All the samples had the usual red to dark red color, a paste-like texture, and the expected tomato taste.

    According to food production rules, tomato paste should contain at least 24% natural tomato. However, some brands had lower tomato content than required.

    More concerning, the researchers found Erythrosine in two samples, even though it was not mentioned on the labels. Starch was also found in some products, ranging from 1g to 24g per 100g of tomato paste.

    In January, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) banned Erythrosine in food because of its health risks. Companies have been given two years to remove it from their products.

    Dr. Abena Boakye, the lead researcher from KNUST, urged the Ghana FDA to strengthen its regulations not only for tomato paste but also for candies, drinks, and other foods that may contain this harmful dye.

    She called for further research and policy changes to ensure the safety of food products available to Ghanaians.

    The researchers also recommended that the findings be used to guide stakeholders in ensuring the availability of safe tomato concentrates and other food products on the market.

  • KNUST research affirms NAPO as cause of NPP’S election defeat

    KNUST research affirms NAPO as cause of NPP’S election defeat

    A study by the Department of History and Political Science at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology provided update on the cause of NPP’s election defeat.

    It attributed the choice of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, also known as Napo, as Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s running mate as a reason that lead the the opposition’s misfortune.

    The key findings;

    The study revealed that 85.45% of respondents are aware of Dr. Prempeh’s candidacy.

    However, opinions on his influence are divided, with 47.29% believing he negatively impacts the campaign and 32.24% viewing him positively. Satisfaction with Dr. Prempeh’s performance is largely negative, with 36.31% very unsatisfied.

    In contrast, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum is preferred by 53.14% of respondents as the ideal running mate and is seen as having the most positive impact by 58.56%.

    The research on the prospects of the 2024 election, conducted by the Department of History and Political Science at the KNUST, was based on public perception and preference of the NPP’s Vice Presidential candidate, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh.

    Lead researcher, Professor Samuel Adu-Gyamfi, sheds light on the findings. 

    “The data reveals mixed perception and a notable 47.29% of respondents, who believes that Dr. Prempeh negatively impacted the campaign,” he said.

    Prof. Adu Gyamfi made some recommendations for Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s candidacy going forward.

    “The running mate in any political party should potentially, if not galvanize support, serve as an icing on the cake of the campaign” he warned.

    Dr. Amakye Boateng, a Political Scientist at the KNUST, also cited public dissatisfaction towards the NPP’s running mate.

    The conclusion of the findings indicates that while Dr. Prempeh is widely recognised, his candidacy faces significant challenges due to dissatisfaction and mixed perceptions of his impact.

    Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum is perceived as a more favourable choice, suggesting that his proven track record and public appeal could offer strategic advantages for the NPP.

    To enhance campaign effectiveness, addressing public dissatisfaction and aligning candidate selection with voter expectations will be crucial for the NPP’s success going forward.

  • Ibrahim Mahama materialises 13-year-old KNUST student’s aviation dreams

    Ibrahim Mahama materialises 13-year-old KNUST student’s aviation dreams

    Business mogul and aviation enthusiast Ibrahim Mahama has turned a childhood dream into reality for 13-year-old Melchizedek Adio Baafawiise, a BSc. Physics student at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).

    Recognising the young prodigy’s passion for aviation, Mahama extended an exclusive invitation for Melchizedek to experience a private jet flight—an extraordinary opportunity that brought him closer to his long-held dream of becoming a pilot.

    Melchizedek, who achieved an outstanding five A1s and three Bs in the WASSCE at just 13, has always been fascinated by aviation. His remarkable academic feat caught Mahama’s attention, prompting the businessman to grant him a firsthand glimpse into the world of aviation.

    During the flight, Melchizedek had the rare privilege of entering the cockpit, where he received a briefing on aircraft operations. Mahama also shared valuable insights into the aviation industry, encouraging the young scholar to keep striving for excellence.

    Beyond the flight experience, Mahama pledged to fully fund Melchizedek’s tuition and academic expenses at KNUST, ensuring he receives the necessary support to pursue his ambitions.

    Melchizedek’s parents have expressed deep gratitude for Mahama’s generosity, describing it as a life-changing gesture.

    Melchizedek made history as one of KNUST’s youngest undergraduates after excelling in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). With A1 grades in Physics and Mathematics, he opted to study Physics at the university to deepen his understanding of science while keeping his aviation aspirations alive.

  • KNUST researchers turn taro peels into high-performance batteries

    KNUST researchers turn taro peels into high-performance batteries

    A group of researchers from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has developed an innovative, eco-friendly technique for creating high-performance batteries using taro (Kooko or brobe) peels.

    This cost-efficient and environmentally responsible process has the potential to transform the energy storage sector. The research, published in the Energy Storage journal, demonstrates how taro peels were converted into activated carbon, leading to improved battery performance.

    The lead researcher and member of the KNUST Center for Engineering Materials Research (KCEMR), Dr. Daniel Nframah Ampong, explained the technique, “We used an environmentally friendly approach to synthesize activated carbon from taro peels. These waste materials contain some properties or functional groups that we believed at the time would enhance the performance of energy storage devices.”

    “The commercially available activated carbons on the market are usually synthesized from chemicals and methods that are toxic, hazardous, and expensive. So, we decided to come down to our level and use the process of producing charcoal in our villages. We mimicked that process using crucibles, and at the end, we were able to synthesize the activated carbon, which had similar properties to the commercially available activated carbons,” he said.

    The final product exhibited impressive performance in lab assessments.

    Leveraging biomass and organic waste like taro peels helps address ecological issues while fostering the growth of sustainable energy solutions.

    “The purpose of the research is to get some storage systems to store renewable energies when they are in excess so that when we need them, we would be able to utilize it effectively since the country is advocating for increasing renewable energy in our energy generation mix. We want to produce something that is eco-friendly with a cheap synthesis process, and the starting materials are locally available,” Dr Ampong added.

    Professor Kwadwo Mensah-Darkwa, the research lead for the energy materials team and Dr. Ampong’s mentor, underscored the groundbreaking progress being made in the lab to leverage biowaste for environmentally-friendly energy alternatives.

    “There has been a lot of development trying to use these biowaste materials mostly to drive our energy storage agenda. The plan is we want to get an eco-friendly way of creating materials for energy storage devices. This is what we are looking forward to at our lab.”

    Prof. Mensah-Darkwa shared his enthusiasm about the potential of their research moving forward.

    “While some tests had previously required travel, the recent establishment of a new materials laboratory through the KNUST Engineering Education Programme (KEEP) has made a major difference.”

    We have equipment now where we can test these assembled cells. So now the output of our research is going to be quite effective, and we would be able to look at all other opportunities we have. However, the synthesized materials ought to be characterized by techniques to confirm the actual material properties needed for specific applications, which we currently lack as a department.”

    He also spoke of the long-term potential of their work: “We know that there is opportunity in this area, and if we build on our expertise, then we can now look at how to scale it up and how to make an impact. We are a little bit far from building our own batteries, but we are close to understanding how we can do these things locally,” he explained.

  • 1,400 Ghanaians die from drowning each year – WHO

    1,400 Ghanaians die from drowning each year – WHO

    The Global Status Report on Drowning Prevention, launched in Geneva, revealed that drowning claims the lives of around 1,400 people annually in Ghana. This figure underscores a critical yet often overlooked public health issue that affects many communities across the country.

    Kelly Larson, Head of Injury Prevention at Bloomberg Philanthropies, highlighted the urgent need to treat drowning as a key health concern. She noted that drowning takes over 300,000 lives each year globally, with 90% of these deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries.

    Larson pointed out that Ghana’s lack of detailed drowning data has made it difficult to fully assess the scope of the problem. However, she remains optimistic about the country’s efforts to reverse this trend, particularly through ongoing research and partnerships aimed at addressing the issue.

    Bloomberg Philanthropies, alongside the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), conducted pivotal research into drowning in Ghana. The findings revealed that drowning incidents are frequent in rivers, lakes, and coastal areas, with children and young adults being particularly vulnerable.

    The research has laid the groundwork for targeted interventions. Larson explained that Bloomberg Philanthropies is working with local and international partners to push for greater government investment in drowning prevention. These efforts focus on collecting data to identify high-risk areas and implementing strategies such as public education campaigns, swim training, and the deployment of lifeguards.

    Ghana is set to benefit from successful drowning prevention programs already implemented in countries like Bangladesh, Vietnam, and Uganda. In Accra, initiatives are underway to provide water safety education and swimming lessons at popular beaches, while studies are being conducted to assess the effectiveness of lifeguards in reducing drowning incidents.

    Larson emphasized that while the efforts are still in their early stages, a combination of data-driven interventions and strong government commitment can help save lives.

    The Global Status Report on Drowning Prevention provides governments with critical data and actionable recommendations for tackling drowning. In Ghana, this report will serve as a blueprint for creating a national strategy, with key recommendations including the establishment of community-based water safety programs, improved data collection systems, and heightened public awareness of water-related risks.

  • Lack of investment and effective planning responsible for 2024 post-election violence – Criminologist

    Lack of investment and effective planning responsible for 2024 post-election violence – Criminologist

    A criminologist at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Jones Opoku-Ware, has attributed recent chaos in the aftermath of the 2024 general elections to the lack of ineffective planning by security agencies.

    He pointed out that resources are often concentrated on the lead-up to and the duration of elections, while post-election issues receive little attention.

    Discussing the unrest in certain regions after the general elections, Mr. Opoku-Ware remarked, “We didn’t pay much attention to the aftermath of the election. If you look at the security arrangements, a lot more focus and resources are dedicated to before and during the election, but we usually overlook what happens after the election results are declared.”

    He also clarified that, against popular belief, violence can emerge not only from the losing parties but also from those who are anticipated to win.

    He remarked, “The violence may not necessarily come from people who have lost but probably from those who are likely to be declared as winners.”

    He also noted that, contrary to common assumptions, violence can be sparked not only by the losing parties but also by those who are expected to emerge victorious.

    Following December 7 elections, several regions across the country have witnessed ongoing post-election violence. Reports suggest that the violent actions are being carried out by supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), the party that won the election.

    In the past three days, a number of state institutions, including the Forestry Commission in Sunyani, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) in Accra, Electoral Commission offices in various districts, and the Metro Mass Transport yard in Kaneshie, have been targeted by groups of thugs.

    In some cases, looters have stolen government property such as computers, agricultural supplies, and other assets.

    As of now, the Ghana Police Service has apprehended 106 individuals believed to be involved in these acts of violence across the country.

  • KNUST mourns level 300 student run over by ‘trotro’

    KNUST mourns level 300 student run over by ‘trotro’

    The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) is in mourning following the tragic death of Afia Dedaa Osae-Atuah, a third-year Geography student, who was run over by a speeding commercial vehicle, a “Trotro.”

    The incident occurred as she was on her way to Kumasi to repair her laptop. The vehicle veered off the road, striking Afia and leading to her untimely death.

    The KNUST community has been left shocked by the loss of the young student, with many expressing their condolences and grief over the incident.

    Social media users, particularly on X, have shared their sympathy for the deceased, with one user reflecting, “Going out and coming back safe is such an underrated blessing. May her humble soul rest in peace.”

    The tragic accident has drawn attention to the dangers on the roads and served as a somber reminder of how fragile life can be. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. It is unknown the number of casualties so far.

    https://twitter.com/GipsyPoppe/status/1866884931072430154

  • Can’t we describe Akufo-Addo as a joker for failing galamsey fight? – UTAG-KNUST chapter

    Can’t we describe Akufo-Addo as a joker for failing galamsey fight? – UTAG-KNUST chapter

    Professor Eric Abavare, President of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) chapter of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), has defended his use of the term “joker” to describe President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo in relation to the government’s efforts to combat illegal mining, also known as galamsey.

    Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV on Saturday, October 12, Prof. Abavare questioned the president’s performance in fighting galamsey, stating that his description was justified given the government’s failure to significantly address the environmental damage caused by illegal mining.

    His comments drew criticism from Enoch Afoakwa, a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) communications team, who expressed discomfort with the term used. However, Prof. Abavare stood by his statement, asserting that it reflected the reality of the president’s handling of the issue.

    “My learned friend Enoch said I have described the president with a word that he is not comfortable with. I want him to understand that I want my government to succeed. I want my country to succeed, and if my government succeeds, it means my country also succeeds,” Prof. Abavare explained.

    He further elaborated on his choice of language by referencing the government’s inability to reclaim lands destroyed by illegal mining: “I made those descriptions about the president and I still stand by them; that he is a big joker! When we attended elementary school, you recall that we studied something called ’rounding off.’ You have a fraction that is less than 5, and then you round it out to be zero. So, if the environmental audit report of the Accountant-General says that we have reclaimed less than 1 percent of destroyed lands and in the examination, if you get less than 50 percent, we say you have failed.”

    Prof. Abavare concluded by questioning the president’s performance on galamsey, saying, “Assuming I have put the president to an examination on galamsey and I am supposed to assess him on his performance of land reclamation and he gets less than 1 percent, and I describe him as a joker, is it out of the blue?”

    His remarks highlight ongoing frustrations with the government’s inability to effectively address the devastation caused by illegal mining, as Ghana continues to grapple with the environmental and social consequences of galamsey.

  • Photos and videos of #FreeTheCitizens demo

    Photos and videos of #FreeTheCitizens demo

    The #FreeTheCitizens Movement has kicked off its 3-day protest in Accra today, running until October 5, to demand action against illegal mining (galamsey) and its severe impact on the environment.

    Protesters gathered at 6 AM at Legon, Okponglo, and are marching towards Independence Square to raise awareness about illegal detentions and the widespread environmental devastation caused by galamsey.

    The protest has attracted widespread support from various groups and prominent figures. Notably, Katanga Fellowood, a group from the University Hall at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), initially intended to participate as a collective. However, after consultations, they decided to withdraw in respect for their leader, Odeefour.

    Organizers of the protest have stressed that the #FreeTheCitizens Movement is more than just a demonstration. They describe it as a “rallying call for all Ghanaians who stand for democracy, justice, and the protection of our environment,” and anticipate participation from citizens across the nation.

  • Turmeric powder on Accra markets contains chalk – KNUST study

    Turmeric powder on Accra markets contains chalk – KNUST study

    A recent study from a group of researchers at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has disclosed that  powdered turmeric products sold in Greater Accra markets lack quality.

    The research by Biochemistry and Biotechnology Department’s uncovered chalk and Metanil yellow, an unapproved food colorant, in samples of Turmeric powder sourced from ten different markets, including Agbogboloshie and Malata.

    The study highlighted a troubling trend of food adulteration, with all twenty turmeric products examined found to contain Metanil yellow, an azo dye, while two samples contained chalk.

    Per research the long-term exposure to these chemicals can lead to severe health risks, including liver cancer, cardiovascular diseases, peptic ulcers, and kidney issues.

    Turmeric which is  praised for its numerous health benefits is widely used in Ghanaian households not only as a spice but also as a food preservative and colourant. 

    It is recognized for its effectiveness in treating ailments such as diabetic wounds, hepatic disorders, rheumatism, and coughs.

    The primary active ingredient, curcumin, contributes to turmeric’s vibrant yellow color and its nutritional and medicinal properties.

    An Associate Professor of Biochemistry, Prof. Christopher Larbie, who led the team that conducted this study, shed light on the practice of vendors adding chalk to increase the quantity and enhance the yellow hue of turmeric powder.

    “What we gathered was that they add the chalk to increase the quantity of the turmeric and also enhance the yellow colouration of the vegetable,” he said.

    The study, published in the European Journal of Nutrition & Food Safety, found that freshly sourced turmeric powders are typically rich in B vitamins and Vitamin C, which play essential roles in metabolism and carbohydrate digestion.

    However, the researchers noted a significant reduction in these nutrients, approximately a 72% decrease in curcumin content, with Vitamins B1 and B2 declining by about 90% and 92% respectively. Alarmingly, Vitamin C levels were found to be zero in some samples.

    “The Vitamins B1 and B2 had decreased about 90% and 92% respectively. Vitamin C was zero. When you buy such products, you are not getting the actual nutrients you need for disease prevention and healing,” Prof  Larbie added.

    The researchers attributed the loss of vitamins to prolonged exposure to air, which alters their chemical composition, especially as these vitamins are heat-sensitive.

    While the study did not quantify the levels of contaminants detected, it emphasized the need for increased public awareness regarding food safety.

    Food adulteration poses significant risks to health, potentially leading to symptoms such as diarrhoea, dysentery, and vomiting. 

    The toxic effects of Metanil yellow, in particular, can impact the liver, brain, and reproductive systems, and it has not been approved as a food colorant in Ghana.

    To combat this issue, the scientists have recommended regular food surveillance. 

    The study advised that consumers check for turmeric adulteration by dissolving the powder in water; a delayed dissolution may indicate the presence of chalk.

     Additionally, it stated that if the powder leaves a yellow stain on the tongue, it may suggest contamination with Metanil yellow.

    “Metanil yellow is toxic on the liver, brain, and reproductive systems. It has negative effects on some of the brain hormones. Metanil yellow hasn’t been approved as a food colour in Ghana,” Prof. Larbie said.

  • Level 200 KNUST student dies in accident at Taifa

    Level 200 KNUST student dies in accident at Taifa

    A second-year Communication Design student from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Charles Sekyi Nhyira, has sadly passed away following a devastating road accident at Taifa.

    The accident, which occurred on Thursday, September 12, 2024, took place as Charles was on his way back from celebrating his birthday.

    Reports suggest that excessive speed played a role in the crash, resulting in severe injuries.

    Although he was rushed to the hospital, Charles tragically succumbed to his injuries.

    He was preparing to enter his third year at KNUST before the fatal accident cut his life short.

    The heartbreaking news has left the university community in mourning, with fellow students and friends deeply grieving the loss of a bright and talented individual.

  • KNUST launches $10m endowment fund to improve skills of professionals

    KNUST launches $10m endowment fund to improve skills of professionals

    The College of Health Sciences (CHS) at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has launched an Endowment Fund with a target of raising $10 million over the next five years.

    The Fund’s objectives include improving the training of skilled health professionals, advancing research on local diseases, providing scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate studies, and acquiring essential equipment.

    Moreover, it aims to create opportunities to retain health science graduates, addressing some of the developmental challenges in the country’s health sector.

    During a media briefing, Professor Daniel Ansong, Chairman of the Endowment Fund Board, spoke on behalf of Prof. Christian Agyare, the Provost of the College.

    He noted that while the number of applicants for health programs has been rising each year, the number of admissions remains limited. Many qualified applicants are turned away, and some of those who are admitted often opt for other institutions or programs.

    The Dean also pointed out that insufficient infrastructure is a significant barrier to expanding the training of health professionals.

    “As a nation with a very high health worker-to-patient ratio, one will have thought that more health personnel would be trained to augment the shortfalls that have existed over the years,” he explained.

    He highlighted the need to expand facilities to admit more students, citing the completion of the Boadi Medical Village as a key factor in boosting admissions.

    The Dean also voiced concerns over the growing dependence on fee-paying students, which leaves many qualified candidates unable to pursue healthcare education due to financial barriers.

    He underscored the importance of resolving this issue to ensure that healthcare training is based on merit rather than financial capability.

    “We need to come out of this, that is why we are calling on all stakeholders, corporate Ghana, alumni, and parents to support this Endowment Fund established by the college,” he rallied.

    The CHS comprises seven schools or faculties, including the KNUST School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, School of Public Health, School of Nursing and Midwifery, and School of Dentistry.

    In addition, the College hosts research institutions such as the Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research into Tropical Medicine and the German-West African Centre for Global Health and Pandemic Prevention.

    Maxwell Opoku Agyemang, Co-Chair of the Advisory Board, stressed the importance of accountability and transparency in the management of the Fund to drive the College’s growth.

    He urged stakeholders, including corporate entities, alumni, and parents, to contribute to the Endowment Fund to support the training of more health professionals.

  • KNUST student loses life in ‘galamsey’ pit during a rescue attempt

    KNUST student loses life in ‘galamsey’ pit during a rescue attempt

    A final-year student from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has sadly lost his life in a tragic incident.

    Patrick Mensah, who was nearing the completion of his BSc. in Agriculture Biotech, fell into a mining pit while attempting a rescue.

    Reports on X (formerly Twitter) reveal that Patrick had come home on Monday after his final exams. The following day, he visited a friend at a galamsey site in Manso.

    In a bid to help someone who had fallen into a pit, Patrick tragically ended up falling in himself and died.

    His uncle reported that Patrick had been celebrating the end of his semester exams and was scheduled to defend his project on the day of the incident.

    The news has led to an outpouring of condolences on social media, with some people attributing the tragedy to the high level of youth unemployment.

  • KNUST blows alarm on fraudulent admission syndicate

    KNUST blows alarm on fraudulent admission syndicate

    The management of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has issued a strong warning regarding the activities of a criminal syndicate posing as facilitators for university admissions.

    The syndicate is said to be deceiving prospective students into making payments and divulging personal information under the pretense of offering guaranteed admission into the university.

    Operating through fraudulent email addresses such as knust.inscript@gmail.com and knust.inscripton@gmail.com, the syndicate solicits funds and sensitive data from unsuspecting applicants, falsely claiming to manage KNUST’s admission processes.

    In response to these deceptive schemes, KNUST has made it clear that the university has not authorized any individuals, agents, or third parties to handle admissions on its behalf. All admission processes are managed exclusively through the university’s official channels, which include the KNUST Admissions Office and authorized vendors.

    KNUST is urging prospective students and their guardians to disregard any communications from these fraudulent entities and report such activities immediately to the nearest police station.

    In a statement, the university stressed, “We urge all prospective students and their parents to disregard any such fraudulent communications and report them immediately to the nearest police station.”

    To avoid becoming victims of this scam, KNUST has provided clarity on how to properly obtain admission forms:

    • Undergraduate Admission Forms: These can be purchased at all regional post offices nationwide or by dialing the short code *885# and following the prompts to buy the forms.
    • Postgraduate Admission Forms: These are available at designated banks.

    The university management is imploring all stakeholders to exercise extreme caution and ensure they engage solely with the official KNUST Admission Office for any admission-related matters. “Management entreats all prospective students and guardians to exercise extreme caution and engage with the KNUST Admission Office exclusively, to avoid falling victim to fraud,” the statement advised.

    KNUST reaffirms its commitment to ensuring a transparent and secure admission process for all applicants. Any questions or concerns regarding admissions can be directed to the university’s official contact points:

    • Website: www.knust.edu.gh
    • Tel: 03220-61831 / 03220-60444
    • Email: Admissions@knust.edu.gh
    • Fax: 03220-60444

    The university’s management is actively working with law enforcement agencies to address the issue and protect the interests of prospective students.

  • ECG, SSNIT, others owe KNUST over GHC1.2m for renting private residence

    ECG, SSNIT, others owe KNUST over GHC1.2m for renting private residence

    The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) is taking action to recover a debt of GH₵1.2 million owed by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT), and three other organizations.

    The debt arises from unpaid rent for office spaces and private hostel operations over several years, according to the Auditor-General.

    During her appearance before the Public Accounts Committee, KNUST Vice-Chancellor, Professor Rita Akosua Dickson, disclosed that only one of the debtors has made a partial payment of GH₵25,000, leaving the majority of the debt unpaid.

    “With the Electricity Company of Ghana, we’ve arranged a barter trade settlement plan. We owe ECG a significant amount, so we’ve proposed that they offset the debt by deducting the amount they owe us. We’ve already communicated this plan to ECG,” Professor Dickson explained.

    She added that other entities, like UBA, have settled their debts in full, including the premiums they owed.

    However, Professor Dickson acknowledged the challenges KNUST has faced in recovering these outstanding debts, despite sending multiple demand notices and following up with the entities involved.

    In a related issue, the Public Accounts Committee also expressed concern over Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development (AAMUSTED) for procuring medical supplies from two unlicensed entities. The Auditor-General’s report indicated that the university purchased GH₵414,000 worth of drugs from these unregistered suppliers in 2022.

    “This is a serious violation. Selling drugs requires a license, and purchasing from unlicensed suppliers is risky. It is essential to ensure that all entities involved in procurement have the proper certifications from regulatory bodies like the FDA and the Pharmacy Council,” the Committee warned.

    The Committee advised AAMUSTED to prioritize obtaining necessary certifications in future procurements, especially when it concerns health-related items, to ensure compliance and protect public safety.

  • KNUST scientist calls for inclusion of NTDs control in national health policies

    KNUST scientist calls for inclusion of NTDs control in national health policies

    A Parasitologist at KNUST, Professor Alexander Yaw Debrah, has highlighted the need to make the control of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) a central focus in national health strategies.

    During his inaugural professorial lecture, he underscored the necessity for sufficient funding to support NTD control initiatives, which encompass surveillance, treatment, and research.

    “Local and endemic country governments, including the government of Ghana, must commit some percentage of health funds to fight NTDs,” he stated.

    The lecture, themed “Eliminating filarial diseases: A new hope for an old battle,” emphasized how local and collaborative partnerships have been instrumental in addressing filarial diseases in Ghana.

    The discussion also included the growth of human and infrastructure capacities needed to support ongoing research and control measures.

    In his advocacy for the inclusion of elephantiasis patients in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), Prof. Debrah called on the government to ensure that these individuals are also eligible for the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) program.

    “LEAP is a social protection intervention of the Government of Ghana aimed at reducing extreme poverty among the poorest and most vulnerable in Ghana.

    “Our research data shows that the little help we gave to the patients actually improved their quality of life. If the government extends LEAP to elephantiasis patients, it will definitely improve their quality of life,” he asserted.

    Professor Debrah also underscored the importance of conducting regular evaluations to verify the effectiveness of interventions.

    “Our experiences from the Yaws Eradication Program and other NTD programs, both local and international, teach us that the last 1% of patients left is as equally important as the first 99% we successfully treated. Therefore, we should be very careful not to close the books on ‘eliminated NTDs.’

    “If you are certified to eliminate a disease, it does not mean it is completely eradicated from the country. It means it is no longer a public health threat. However, if care is not taken, recrudescence can set in, and fighting to control it will be very difficult due to factors such as donor apathy and disengagement,” he explained.

    As digital technology advances, Prof. Debrah urged for increased integration of digital and mobile tools by community health volunteers (CHVs) to detect both new and existing cases.

    A key element of his recommendations involves promoting collaboration between policymakers, researchers, academic institutions, international organizations, and public-private partnerships to eradicate NTDs.

  • KNUST’s Prempeh library catches fire

    KNUST’s Prempeh library catches fire

    Chaos erupted at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) Prempeh II Library when a fire broke out on the third floor due to a malfunctioning electrical socket.

    Firefighters quickly extinguished the flames, ensuring the safe evacuation of everyone from the library.

    Calm has since been restored, and students have resumed their studies in preparation for the second-semester examinations, starting tomorrow.

    Master Kane Nana Francis, the KNUST SRC President-Elect, addressed the students, highlighting essential safety measures during a fire and cautioning against overloading electrical sockets.

    He also encouraged students to remain calm and avoid panic in such situations.

    Fortunately, no casualties were reported.

    This incident comes just 10 days after another fire affected a three-story accommodation facility, “Father Hostel,” at KNUST, which destroyed at least nine rooms and impacted 22 students and three teaching assistants.

    The outgoing Yvonne-Nkay-led SRC administration provided relief items and temporary accommodation for the affected individuals.

  • Part of KNUST Prempeh II Library catches fire due to faulty socket

    Part of KNUST Prempeh II Library catches fire due to faulty socket

    A fire erupted at the Prempeh II Library of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), causing chaos on the third floor due to a malfunctioning electrical socket.

    Firefighters promptly responded and extinguished the blaze, ensuring the safe evacuation of everyone present.

    Order has since been restored, and students have resumed their studies in preparation for the end-of-semester exams, starting tomorrow.

    Master Kane Nana Francis, the KNUST SRC President-Elect, addressed the students, highlighting essential safety measures during a fire and cautioning against overloading electrical sockets. He also stressed the importance of staying calm and avoiding panic in such situations.

    Thankfully, no casualties were reported.

    This incident comes just 10 days after another fire severely damaged a three-story accommodation facility, “Father Hostel,” at KNUST, destroying at least nine rooms and affecting 22 students and three teaching assistants.

  • Check out KNUST’s new academic programs

    Check out KNUST’s new academic programs

    The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) is set to introduce a number of novel academic programmes to be studied during the 2024/2025 academic year.

    An X page believed to be the tertiary institution’s official page made this information known.

    Per the information provided, the new programs include BSc. Dietetics, BSc. Human Nutrition, BA. Public Administration, and BSc. Information Technology.

    It is unknown the exact number of new programs but it is believed that they are more than the four programs. mentioned above.

  • Injunction application against KNUST VC’s reappointment dismissed

    Injunction application against KNUST VC’s reappointment dismissed

    A Kumasi High Court has rejected an application for an interlocutory injunction intended to block the tenure extension of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) Vice Chancellor, Prof. Mrs. Rita Akosua Dickson. The second term of Prof. Dickson is set to begin on August 1, 2024.

    Clement Kofi Ohene Asare, who filed the application, sought to prevent Prof. Dickson’s reappointment. However, Justice Frederick Tetteh dismissed the application, stating it lacked merit and questioning Asare’s claim of being an alumnus of the university. Asare failed to provide convincing evidence of his status as a former student.

    During court proceedings, the plaintiff’s counsel argued that the reappointment process was “procedurally wrong” according to university statutes. The counsel highlighted that the proper procedure involves a seven-member Search Committee to identify candidates and an open advertisement for the Vice Chancellor position, which were allegedly not followed.

    The defense counsel, representing the university and the Vice Chancellor, countered these claims, asserting that the reappointment process adhered to the university’s statutes.

    Following the court’s dismissal of the injunction application, the plaintiff filed a stay of execution and an appeal against the decision. A confrontation occurred at the court premises when the bailiff attempted to serve the university’s lawyers, who insisted on being served officially at the university.

    The court ordered the plaintiff to pay a cost of 9,000 Ghana cedis. Dr. Noris Bekoe, the University Relations Officer, expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision and encouraged resolving disputes amicably without resorting to legal actions.

    In the meantime, another university staff member has filed a similar suit seeking to block the Vice Chancellor’s reappointment.

  • KNUST worker files fresh lawsuit against tenure extension of vice-chancellor

    KNUST worker files fresh lawsuit against tenure extension of vice-chancellor

    A stores superintendent from the Procurement Department at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has initiated legal action against the extension of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mrs. Akosua Dickson’s tenure.

    Isaac Mensah, a 26-year veteran of the university, is calling on the court to annul the extension, citing “illegality and procedural impropriety”.

    Mensah argues that the governing council’s decision is unlawful and should be overturned.

    He believes that allowing the extension would violate the university’s statutes and prevent other qualified candidates from being considered for the Vice-Chancellor position.

    The suit underscores the urgency of the matter, pointing out that the governing council intends for the VC to begin her extended term on August 1, 2024.

    This development follows a similar legal challenge from an alumnus regarding the Vice-Chancellor’s reappointment two weeks ago. That case is set to be heard on July 30.

  • KNUST’s father hostel destroyed by fire

    KNUST’s father hostel destroyed by fire

    A catastrophic blaze destroyed the three-storey “Father Hostel” at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).

    The origin of the fire is still unknown, but the blaze has caused extensive damage to the building, which was used as a student hostel.

    At least nine rooms have been reduced to debris, leaving the affected individuals devastated and students in nearby buildings alarmed.

    Fortunately, there have been no reported injuries. However, nine students have lost all their possessions, leaving them without a place to stay.

    Witnesses reported that the fire began in one room and rapidly spread through the entire building, engulfing their belongings in minutes.

    Eyewitnesses also mentioned that there was a 30-minute delay in the response from the KNUST Fire Department due to difficulties reaching their emergency contact number.

    The remaining sections of the building are now considered unsafe due to severe structural damage.

    In response, the KNUST Students’ Representative Council (SRC) has organized temporary lodging for the affected students at the SRC hostel.

    The council is also urging all students to follow safety guidelines to avoid similar incidents in the future.

  • 3-storey KNUST student hostel destroyed by fire

    3-storey KNUST student hostel destroyed by fire

    Fire has engulfed a three-story accommodation facility known as “Father Hostel” at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), leaving the student residence severely damaged.

    The cause of the blaze on Thursday night, July 25, remains unknown.

    The inferno, which devastated at least nine rooms, left the affected students distraught and nearby residents alarmed.

    Although no casualties were reported, nine students lost all their belongings.

    According to victims, the fire originated in one room and rapidly spread throughout the building, destroying their possessions within minutes. Eyewitnesses reported that attempts to reach the KNUST Fire Department were initially unsuccessful, leading to a 30-minute delay in response.

    The remaining sections of the building have been declared uninhabitable due to substantial structural damage. In response to the disaster, the KNUST Students’ Representative Council (SRC) has provided temporary accommodation for the displaced students at the SRC hostel.

    The council is also calling on all students to follow safety protocols diligently to prevent future incidents.

  • KNUST study shows lower diabetes risk for rural residents

    KNUST study shows lower diabetes risk for rural residents

    Researchers from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) have recently uncovered intriguing insights into the risk factors for diabetes and hypertension in rural populations.

    As reported in the February 2024 issue of the journal Health Open Research, individuals engaged in fishing and farming, along with students and apprentices, showed lower probabilities of developing diabetes.

    The 2022 study, which involved over 2,500 participants, focused on the Asante Akim North Municipality in Ghana’s Ashanti region, examining factors linked to hypertension and diabetes.

    Additionally, the research found that those who consumed snacks during work hours had a decreased likelihood of developing diabetes.

    This surprising result indicates that certain dietary practices may help reduce the risk of this chronic disease.

    The study’s conclusions challenge the common belief that diet, alcohol consumption, tobacco use, and physical activity are major risk factors for hypertension and diabetes in rural settings.

    Instead, the research highlighted sociodemographic factors like age, gender, and marital status, along with inadequate health screenings, as key predictors of these conditions.

    The findings emphasize the critical need for better health education and comprehensive screening programs to manage hypertension and diabetes in rural areas.

    Raising awareness and ensuring access to regular health check-ups could be crucial for early diagnosis and treatment, thereby alleviating the impact of these chronic illnesses.

    The researchers urge health authorities and policymakers to act swiftly to address the sociodemographic determinants and implement extensive health screening initiatives to protect rural health.

    The study’s authors include Dr. Joseph Kwasi Brenyah, Prof. Yeetey Enuameh, Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye, Dr. Francis Asenso-Boadi, Mr. Roland Miah, Dr. Peter Twum, and Dr. Ebenezer Dassah.

    Additional contributors are Mr. Samuel Frimpong Odoom, Dr. Thomas Peprah Agyekum, Dr. Nana Ayisi-Boateng, Mr. Richard Adade, Prof. Fred Stephen Sarfo, and Dr. Arti Singh.

  • NPP has to campaign off Akufo-Addo’s legacies, or else getting 40% votes will be hard – KNUST Professor

    NPP has to campaign off Akufo-Addo’s legacies, or else getting 40% votes will be hard – KNUST Professor

    Head of the History and Political Science Department at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST),Professor Samuel Adu Gyamfi, advised the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and its flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, against centering their campaign on President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s policies and achievements.

    During an interview on Neat FM on July 15, 2024, Prof. Gyamfi asserted that President Akufo-Addo’s nearly eight-year tenure has not yielded significant policies or enduring legacies.

    He cautioned that relying on these aspects for their campaign could potentially harm the party’s electoral prospects.

    “If the NPP tries to campaign on the so-called achievements of Akufo-Addo, they won’t even secure 40% of the vote in the upcoming 2024 elections,” he stated.

    The professor emphasized the need for the NPP to pivot its campaign strategy to focus on Dr. Bawumia’s potential contributions.

    “The party should present the credible ideas and strengths that Bawumia brings to the table,” he advised.

    Prof. Gyamfi also raised concerns about the potential negative impact on Bawumia’s campaign if the party relies too heavily on Akufo-Addo’s credentials. He advised the party to avoid this approach to safeguard their prospects in the December polls.

    “So, they should go into this election with the prowess that Bawumia is bringing on board because Akufo-Addo’s credentials cannot push the NPP. They shouldn’t even try before he destroys Bawumia’s campaign. I am being frank with you.

    “Bawumia brings all the credible ideas that would have made Ghana,” he added.

  • NAPO’s apology wasn’t genuine – Lecturer

    NAPO’s apology wasn’t genuine – Lecturer

    Former head of the Political Science Department at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Dr. Richard Amoako Baah, has cast doubt on the sincerity of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh’s (NAPO) apology.

    “It is not sincere; the party leadership has asked you to apologise. The regional chairman of the Ashanti Region is also stoking the fire with his comments, and nobody is saying you have to apologise. You have to remain sincere. It is win at all costs for the party; they have forgotten what the truth is,” he said.

    Speaking on TV3’s Newday on Monday, July 15, Dr. Baah criticized the apology as being prompted by party directives rather than genuine remorse.

    “They have told lies for a long time; they do not know what truth is. How can a party make good decisions if the leaders lack wisdom? Every intention is to make money, and no wisdom is applied. Some people behave as if the country belongs to them,” he stated.

    During a ceremony on July 12 to introduce him as the running mate of the NPP, Dr. Opoku Prempeh, also known as NAPO, asserted that President Akufo-Addo’s achievements surpass those of any president since independence.

    His remarks were widely criticized as a political misstep, prompting him to issue an apology through a later statement in response to the backlash.

  • Lois Koranteng’s death follows the death of her mother and grandmother all this year

    Lois Koranteng’s death follows the death of her mother and grandmother all this year

    The recent passing of 24-year-old Lois Abena Koranteng has cast a devastating shadow over her family, compounding a year already marred by multiple tragic losses.

    Lois, a graduate of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, met her untimely demise under circumstances that have sparked widespread public outcry and demands for justice.

    Lois was reportedly found unconscious in a hotel swimming pool during a business trip with her supervisor and a company driver in Takoradi on June 8, 2024.

    Despite efforts to resuscitate her, she was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital. The exact circumstances surrounding her death remain under investigation by the Ghana Police Service, who conducted an autopsy revealing the causes as asphyxia, severe pulmonary edema, and drowning.

    In a heartbreaking revelation, Lois’s family shared the immense grief they have endured this year, having already lost her mother and grandmother prior to Lois’s tragic passing. According to her uncle, Kwesi Kidman, the family was in the midst of arranging funeral proceedings for Lois’s mother and grandmother when they received the devastating news of Lois’s death.

    “This year has been incredibly difficult for our family,” Kwesi Kidman lamented in a viral Facebook post. “We lost my sister, then my mother passed away due to shock shortly after. As we were preparing to lay them to rest, we received the tragic news of Lois’s death in Takoradi. It’s been a year of unbearable loss.”

    George Agyenim Boateng, Lois’s brother, expressed dissatisfaction with the pace of the police investigation and the lack of communication from authorities regarding the progress made in Lois’s case. He emphasized the family’s plea for justice and transparency in uncovering the circumstances leading to her death.

    The Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, recently reached out to the family, acknowledging their concerns and apologizing for the inadequate engagement initially experienced by the family. He assured them of ongoing efforts to thoroughly investigate the incident and pledged to keep the family updated on any developments.

    As the investigation continues, the family remains determined to seek justice for Lois and to honor the memories of their loved ones who have tragically departed this year.

  • We are sorry for insufficient police engagement – IGP tells family of KNUST graduate found dead in a hotel

    We are sorry for insufficient police engagement – IGP tells family of KNUST graduate found dead in a hotel

    Inspector General of the Ghana Police Service (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has formally apologized to the family of Lois Abena Koranteng, who was discovered dead in the swimming pool at the CrisLord Palace Hotel in Takoradi.

    The apology was conveyed through a press statement issued on Thursday, July 11, and signed by ASP Grace Ansah-Akrofi, the Director of Public Affairs.

    The bereaved family had previously expressed dissatisfaction in various media outlets regarding the police’s level of engagement with them concerning the investigation.

    In response to these concerns, the IGP personally reached out to the family on Wednesday, July 10, via telephone to offer his apologies.

    “He assured them that the investigation into the incident is still ongoing and also informed them of the readiness of the Police to visit them at their convenience and update them on the investigation done so far,” an excerpt from the statement read.

    Lois Abena Koranteng, aged 24, had checked into the CrisLord Palace Hotel on June 7, 2024, with her boss and another company staff member. Tragically, she was found dead in the hotel’s swimming pool the following morning.

    Reports have indicated that the hotel’s CCTV cameras were not operational during the week of the incident, adding to the mystery surrounding her death. The absence of surveillance footage has raised concerns about the circumstances leading to her demise.

    In light of these developments, the police, in collaboration with the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), have launched an investigation to determine the cause of her death.

  • I made my sister’s death public because I want justice for her – Brother of 24-year-old KNUST graduate

    I made my sister’s death public because I want justice for her – Brother of 24-year-old KNUST graduate

    The brother of Lois Abena Koranteng, 24, who passed away mysteriously while traveling for work with her supervisor, has disclosed the reasons behind his decision to make the information public.

    George Agyenim Boateng, in a phone conversation with GhanaWeb, voiced his dissatisfaction with the cumbersome inquiry into his sister’s death.

    A month after the incident, on June 7, 2024, Lois Koranteng, a graduate of Kwame Nkrumah Science and Technology, passed away, the police have made no arrests and have not updated the family on the status of their investigation.

    The police allegedly withheld the report from the family in order to aid in their investigation, according to George Agyenim Boateng, who also claims that the police autopsy reports from the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital were kept secret.

    He expressed his belief that his sister’s case has been neglected and pleaded with the police to expedite their investigation into the incident.

    However, he continued, this process has been delayed, which is why he brought the issue to the public’s attention.

    “We don’t know if Icons Energy (the company) is conducting a private investigation. The only people we know are conducting investigations which we are aware of is the Ghana Police Service and we trust Ghana Police such that they can do their best to fish it out.

    “But I brought it to social media because to me, I feel the matter is being sidelined and I needed people to support me to seek justice for my sister. At least the police should hurry with their investigations because we are in pain”, he stated.

    In addition, George Agyenim Boateng said that Icon Energy, the business where his late sister was employed, had since paid the family a formal visit to offer their condolences.

    Recounting the actual events, he said that on June 7, 2024, the late Lois Abena Koranteng called the family to let them know that she and a company driver were going on a business trip to Anaji, a township in Takoradi, Western Region.

    On June 8, 2024, however, the company got in touch with the family to let them know about their relative’s passing.

    It was reported that the relative was discovered in the swimming pool at first light but was pronounced dead when they got to the hospital.

    In an effort to bring his sister’s death to justice, Agyenim Boateng is pleading with the public for assistance.

  • 24-year-old KNUST graduate found dead in a swimming pool at Takoradi

    24-year-old KNUST graduate found dead in a swimming pool at Takoradi

    The family of a 24-year-old petroleum engineering graduate from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) is seeking justice following the circumstances surrounding her death.

    According to a post on X by an account named Edhub, the deceased, identified as Lois Abena Koranteng, was found unconscious in a hotel pool during a business trip with her boss and his driver on June 8, 2024.

    Reports indicate that Lois, her boss, and the driver stayed in separate rooms at a hotel in Takoradi for the night. Early on June 8, 2024, a hotel employee discovered Lois’s body in the pool, dressed only in a bra and underwear.

    She was quickly transported to the nearest hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival.

    Following an official complaint, the police conducted an autopsy to determine if foul play was involved.

    The autopsy revealed no signs of cuts or blood stains on her body.

    Meanwhile, the hotel has claimed that its CCTV cameras were not operational at the time of the incident, preventing them from providing footage.

    Investigations are ongoing as the family continues to seek answers regarding their daughter’s death.

  • Heavy rains flood several hostels at KNUST

    Heavy rains flood several hostels at KNUST

    A downpour on Wednesday, June 26, caused severe flooding in several off-campus hostels at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), especially in the Ayeduase area.

    The torrential rain, lasting for several hours, led to significant water accumulation, disrupting the daily lives of many students residing in these hostels.

    The unexpected flooding affected multiple hostels, inundating rooms.

    Students reported water seeping into their rooms, damaging personal belongings, electronics, and study materials.

    The severity of the flooding varied across different hostels, but the overall situation left many students scrambling to protect their possessions and navigate the rising waters.

    Some students had mid-semester examinations scheduled during the downpour.

    Despite the flooded conditions, these students were compelled to wade through the water to reach their examination halls.

    Affected students expressed frustration and concerns about the flooding, sharing images and videos of the inundated hostels on social media.

    They called for immediate action from hostel management and local authorities to address drainage issues and prevent future occurrences.

  • The Kumasi Kejetia Market design was crafted by my father – Ga Mantse

    The Ga Mantse, Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has unveiled his significant connection to Asanteman.

    During a recent segment of JoyNews’ Personality Profile program, the Ga Mantse disclosed his profound ties to Asanteman, stemming from his formative years spent in Kumasi, the capital of Asanteman, where he initiated several business ventures.

    He recounted the tenure of his father, Dr. Ebenezer Nii Armah Tackie, as a senior lecturer at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), emphasizing the close rapport his father maintained with the Manhyia Palace, the residence of the Asantehene.

    Dr. Tackie, an architect and development expert, held esteemed positions as the former Dean of the Faculty of Environmental and Development Studies and the Head of the Department of Architecture at KNUST.

    He played an integral role in designing the iconic Kumasi Kejetia market and was engaged as a consultant for the project.

    “It was my father who was working for Manhyia. My father did a lot of development work in Manhyia with former Asantehene, Opoku Ware II.

    “… my father designed the Kejetia Market project,” Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II said.

    He added, “I was hired by (sic) to represent the company as a consultant on the Kejetia Project”.

  • Vice Chancellor of KNUST to be named Bawumia’s running mate – Kevin Taylor alleges

    Vice Chancellor of KNUST to be named Bawumia’s running mate – Kevin Taylor alleges

    US-based Vlogger Kevin Taylor has claimed that the Vice Chancellor of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Prof Rita Akosua Dickson, is poised to become the running mate of the NPP’s flagbearer, Dr Bawumia.

    On his X timeline, the US-Ghanaian journalist posted that, barring any last-minute changes, the academic could secure the position of running mate.

    “Baring (sic) any last minute changes Rita Akosua Dickson, Vice Chancellor of KNUST is expected to be named running mate of Dr Bawumia,” he wrote.

    However, reports show that this information lacks authentication, as there has been no formal or informal communication within the party regarding a final nominee.

    It’s worth noting that Prof Akosua Dickson’s tenure is due to expire next month, with uncertainty surrounding the commencement of renewal procedures.

    The academic originates from the Ashanti Region, where she attended St. Monica’s Secondary school in Asante Mampong and is affiliated with the Amakom branch of a popular church.

    Profile of Prof Rita Akosua Dickson:

    Rita Akosua Dickson is a Ghanaian phytochemist. In September 2018, she was appointed as the pro-vice chancellor of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, becoming the first woman to hold this position.

    She serves as a board member of the Pharmacy Council and the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana.

    On June 25, 2020, KNUST announced her appointment as the first woman Vice Chancellor of the University, effective August 1, 2020, for a four-year term.

    She obtained her bachelor’s degree in pharmacy from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in 1994 and earned an MParm in pharmacognosy from the same university in 1999. In 2003, she won a Commonwealth Scholarship and pursued a PhD at Kings’ College London, University of London.

    Dickson began her career as a lecturer at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in 2000. After completing further studies in the UK, she returned to Ghana in 2007 and resumed lecturing at the same university.

    In 2009, she was promoted to senior lecturer and later to associate professor in 2014. Prior to her appointment as pro-vice-chancellor in 2018, she served as the dean of the faculty of pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences.

    Her work as a phytochemist focuses on bioactive natural products in the management of communicable and non-communicable diseases.

  • KNUST students remanded for sextortion by Takoradi Circuit Court – Report


    A Takoradi Circuit Court has remanded two students from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) into police custody for conspiring to commit the crime of ‘sextortion’.

    The students, Jerome Enyam, aged 19, from Fijai, and Ebenezer Adam, aged 19, from Kojokrom, are both second-year students at KNUST, Kumasi.

    Their actions violated the Criminal Offenses Act and the Cyber Security Act.

    During prosecution, D/SGT Robert Mensah informed the Court, presided over by Her Ladyship Harriet Charway, that the accused were friends and classmates of the victim, Rhyndolf Owusu Hammond, aged 20, a former KNUST student and son of the complainant, Stephen Owusu Hammond.

    The prosecutor explained that in early 2023, the complainant’s son recorded a video of an intimate encounter with his girlfriend and saved it on his laptop.

    His close friend, Ekow Wilson, who is a key witness in this case, transferred the video onto his personal phone.

    Subsequently, without Wilson’s knowledge and consent, one of the accused airdropped the video onto his phone and shared it with his accomplices.

    In Takoradi, within the jurisdiction of this Court, the two accused, in possession of sexually explicit images of Rhyndolf Owusu Hammond and his girlfriend, harassed, threatened, and coerced him, eventually extorting GHC1,800.00 from him under the threat of releasing the video on social media.

    On November 7, 2023, the prosecutor stated that the accused, using disguises, sent a text message to the victim from an anonymous Vodafone number, 0203224110. They claimed to possess an intimate video of the victim and his girlfriend, demanding GHC 2,500 in exchange for not releasing it.

    The victim reported the matter to his father, who is now the complainant. His father subsequently reported the case to the Police Intelligence Directorate in Takoradi, leading to the arrest of the accused individuals.

    Police retrieved a cell phone from each accused person, both containing the intimate video. After a thorough investigation, the accused were charged with the appropriate offences.

  • Two KNUST students arrested for extortion in sexual intimacy case

    Two KNUST students arrested for extortion in sexual intimacy case

    A Takoradi Circuit Court has remanded two students from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) into police custody on charges of conspiring to commit a crime, specifically ‘sextortion’.

    The accused, Jerome Enyam and Ebenezer Adam, both 19 years old and residents of Fijai and Kojokrom respectively, are second-year students at KNUST, Kumasi. Their actions violate the Criminal Offenses Act and the Cyber Security Act.

    Prosecuting, D/SGT Robert Mensah informed the Court, presided over by Her Ladyship Harriet Charway, that the accused individuals were friends and classmates of the victim, Rhyndolf Owusu Hammond, a 20-year-old former KNUST student and son of the complainant, Mr. Stephen Owusu Hammond.

    The Prosecutor recounted that in early 2023, the complainant’s son recorded a video of an intimate moment with his girlfriend and stored it on his laptop. A close friend and key witness in the case, Ekow Wilson, transferred the video to his personal phone out of excitement. Without Wilson’s knowledge, one of the accused airdropped the video to his own phone and shared it with his accomplice.

    Subsequently, in Takoradi, within the jurisdiction of this Court, the two accused, possessing the explicit video, harassed, threatened, and coerced Hammond, extorting GH¢1,800 from him under the threat of releasing the video on social media.

    On November 7, 2023, the accused sent an anonymous text message to Hammond, demanding GH¢2,500 to prevent the video’s release. The victim then informed his father, who reported the case to the Police Intelligence Directorate in Takoradi, leading to the arrest of the accused.

    Police recovered cell phones containing the explicit video from the accused, and after investigation, they were charged with the relevant offenses.

  • “My son was ignored” – Mother of 3-year-old boy who died in LilWin’s car accident speaks

    “My son was ignored” – Mother of 3-year-old boy who died in LilWin’s car accident speaks

    The mother of three-year-old Tawiah Ampomah, who tragically died in a car accident involving actor Kwadwo Nkansah, known as LilWin, has voiced her dissatisfaction with how the incident was handled.

    She is troubled by the thought that her son’s death resulted from neglect by those present at the scene.

    She highlighted that LilWin’s haste to attend his movie premiere at the KNUST auditorium, without properly attending to the other accident victims, including her own family, causes her great pain.

    “I learned that they were delayed in getting to the hospital because the focus was on LilWin rather than helping them. At the hospital, I was waiting for them and saw McBrown and Wayoosi, among others. If you’ve recovered, at least check on the other accident victims.

    “But instead, you hurried to your movie premiere without showing any concern for them. It’s incredibly painful because my child means everything to me, and his actions were wrong,” she said in a video posted by thosecalledcelebss on Instagram.

    On May 25, 2024, the news of LilWin’s car accident deeply shocked the Ghanaian community.

    The accident occurred in front of Grace Baptist Church at Amakom in Kumasi, where LilWin’s Benz collided head-on with another vehicle, injuring him and two others.

    All those injured, including LilWin, were transported to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital’s Accident and Emergency Unit.

    At the time of the accident, LilWin was en route to the funeral of actress Matilda Asare’s mother. Despite his injuries, LilWin made an appearance at the premiere of his latest film, “A Country Called Ghana,” at the KNUST CCB Auditorium on the same day.

    The police are actively investigating to determine the cause of the accident and to bring resolution to the case. Meanwhile, LilWin’s management has promised to support the bereaved family following the demise of the child.

    Watch video below: