The 1995-year group of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) Basic School, as part of their 30th-anniversary celebrations, embarked on a significant project to renovate and modernize the school’s sickbay. Recognizing the dilapidated state of the existing facility and the crucial role of student health in the learning process, the group took it upon themselves to transform the sickbay into a fully equipped, ultra-modern healthcare center. This initiative underscores the importance of alumni involvement in bolstering educational infrastructure and providing essential resources for students’ well-being. The renovated sickbay, commissioned on June 27, 2025, now boasts a comprehensive array of modern medical equipment and amenities.
The newly refurbished sickbay represents a substantial upgrade from its previous condition. Equipped with new hospital beds, stethoscopes, and a range of other modern medical tools, the facility is now capable of providing a higher standard of care for students. The inclusion of ergonomic furniture enhances both comfort and functionality, while the provision of wheelchairs ensures accessibility for all students, regardless of their physical abilities. This meticulous attention to detail reflects the alumni group’s commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive healing environment. The transformation goes beyond mere cosmetic improvements; it represents a fundamental change in the school’s capacity to address the healthcare needs of its student population.
The motivation behind this substantial undertaking stemmed from the alumni group’s awareness of the deteriorated state of the original sickbay. Having witnessed firsthand the inadequacy of the existing facility, the 1995-year group, led by Mr. Yaw Asante, felt compelled to intervene. Their decision was driven by a deep understanding of the importance of a well-equipped sickbay in ensuring the health and well-being of the students, recognizing that a healthy student body is more likely to thrive academically. This initiative demonstrates a significant contribution from the alumni, further solidifying the essential role alumni associations play in supporting educational institutions beyond government provisions.
The project reflects a broader understanding of the importance of collaborative efforts in supporting educational development. Mr. Asante articulated the group’s belief that relying solely on government funding for educational infrastructure is unsustainable. He emphasized the need for alumni associations and other stakeholders to actively participate in addressing the needs of educational institutions. This project serves as a compelling example of how alumni can effectively contribute to the enhancement of their alma mater and create a positive impact on the lives of current students. The initiative extends beyond the immediate benefits to the school, serving as an inspiring model for other alumni groups and organizations to take an active role in educational development.
Beyond the renovation of the sickbay, the 1995-year group organized a free health screening exercise for the staff and workers of KNUST Basic School. This additional initiative demonstrates their holistic approach to health and well-being within the school community. By extending their support beyond the student population, the alumni group highlights the importance of a healthy working environment for the overall success of the school. This comprehensive approach to health promotion further emphasizes the group’s commitment to the school’s overall welfare.
The official handover ceremony was marked by expressions of gratitude and calls for continued support. Professor Rosemond Boateng Coffie, Chairperson of the KNUST Basic School Board, expressed sincere appreciation for the 1995-year group’s generosity and the significant impact of their contribution. She highlighted the transformative effect of the renovated sickbay and the positive message it sends about the importance of alumni involvement. While acknowledging the significance of the renovated sickbay, Professor Coffie also appealed for further support in addressing other pressing needs of the school, particularly the renovation of the outdated washrooms. This call to action emphasizes the ongoing need for collaborative efforts to ensure the continued improvement of the school’s facilities and create a conducive learning environment. The event served as both a celebration of achievement and a platform to encourage future contributions, highlighting the ongoing journey towards providing the best possible educational experience for the students of KNUST Basic School.
