Kumasi Technical University (KsTU) has made significant strides in expanding its academic offerings, having received accreditation for 40 postgraduate and undergraduate programs for the 2023/2024 academic year. This includes a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Applied Statistics, as well as 17 Master’s, six Bachelor’s degrees, 15 Tertiary Diplomas, and one Non-Tertiary Diploma. Professor Gabriel Dwomoh, the Vice-Chancellor, shared this announcement during the 21st Congregation of the University, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to developing innovative programs that will contribute to Ghana’s growth and development trajectory. The expansion of these academic programs is seen as a means to create collaborative and supportive environments conducive to effective teaching and learning.
During the 2023/2024 academic year, KsTU celebrated the graduation of 1,642 students who completed their respective programs. Among those awarded, 314 received internal diploma certificates, while 1,316 earned Bachelor of Technology certificates, and 19 students were recognized with other certificates. Prof. Dwomoh highlighted the importance of these programs, particularly noting that graduates of Higher National Diploma (HND) and Diploma programs should consider pursuing top-up courses. Such initiatives would enhance their academic qualifications and provide them with competitive advantages in various professional fields.
In the vein of innovation, the university has established a pioneering banking simulation and training center in collaboration with Zenith Bank, branded as the “Zenith Bank – KsTU Banking Clinic.” This center is designed to replicate a traditional banking environment, enabling students in banking and finance to acquire practical skills and knowledge that meet both local and global industry standards. By fostering an experiential learning environment, the center aims to equip the next generation of bankers with competencies that are aligned with contemporary banking practices.
In addition to academic enhancements, Prof. Dwomoh mentioned the robust collaborative framework that KsTU has developed, which includes over 50 partnerships with institutions worldwide. These collaborations are geared towards enhancing operational synergies and academic outcomes. Notably, the university has secured various research grants aimed at fostering development through education and community engagement. This includes a €30,000 grant aimed at bolstering rural water management in Ghana and Kenya, alongside significant funding from the Colombian Government to evaluate women’s participation in STEM fields.
Moreover, the institution has successfully obtained financial support for initiatives vital to advancing regional infrastructure and academic practices. This includes a GH₵1.3 million project funded by the Ghana Skills Development Fund, which aims to integrate garbage sorting into internship programs at Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Kumasi. Additionally, KsTU has received GH₵9.2 million to modernize its Oil and Gas Laboratory, support funded by the Ghana National Gas Company Limited. Such projects not only enhance the university’s resources but also directly contribute to community welfare and environmental sustainability.
As TsTU looks to the future, the expansion of academic programs, infrastructure development, and strategic partnerships are set to play a vital role in its mission to provide comprehensive education tailored to the needs of Ghana and the broader global community. The university’s vision is not only to cultivate skilled professionals but also to promote sustainable practices and innovation across various sectors, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to confront the challenges of the modern world. As raised by Prof. Dwomoh, continued governmental support through entities like the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) will be essential in achieving these ambitious goals and maximizing the impact of the university’s initiatives.
