KNUST New Vice-Chancellor to Boost Females in Sciences

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Professor Kwasi Obiri-Danso, the new Vice-Chancellor, has revealed plans to establish a special Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Unit under the vice-chancellor’s office to boost female enrolment and participation in the STEM. The Office will design and implement a special mentorship programme at the pretertiary levels nationwide to shore up girls’ interests in STEM education and Careers.

The new vice-chancellor made this known in his inaugural address at his investiture ceremony held at the Great Hall on the 1st August, 2016. The unit to be headed by a female professor will liaise with the relevant state departments and agencies in the Ministries of education, Gender and Social Protection and Environment Science and Technology, as well with national and international to work to improve upon the underrepresentation of women in STEM education and careers.

As an immediate measure, Professor Obiri-Danso, stated that the 2016/17 academic year admissions, will review cut-off points for girls opting for programmes in the STEM where statistics show low female patronage over the years. He also shared his dream of a technology driven institution, through expansion of internet connectivity and e-learning as well as sustaining a paperless campus.

He was confident that his initiative of a “Vice-chancellor’s Quarterly Meeting” will offer the opportunity to the university’s scientists and researchers to interact, exchange and share with potential or actual investors to facilitate the understanding and application of research findings. This he hope to bring research to the doorsteps and to deepen the relationship with industry.

Professor Kwasi Obiri-Danso pledged to welcome fresh progressive ideas from all sections of the University saying” I commit myself to a “no one let behind administration”, as we pull KNUST together.”



His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Chancellor, stated that his election to the highest office as a vice-chancellor is a success story that encompasses all for the good of the University and mother Ghana, which should bring all together for a common purpose.

The Asantehene noted that this is the time for all to work together for the good of the university. He cautioned the vice-chancellor saying” this is not the time for revenge, for show of authority, and for “where power lies”.

According to the Chancellor, it is time for collective collegialty by extending a genuine and sincere hand of friendship for the common good of all and the University.

Otumfuo called on Professor Obiri-Danso to display selflessness and a high level of conscientiousness, skill and efficiency in managing KNUST’s resources.



Professor William Otoo Ellis, Immediate Past Vice-chancellor, noted that it is time to formally close the chapter of his tenure as the ninth vice-chancellor of KNUST. He called on all to give great support to the new vice-chancellor and the leadership. Proffesor Ellis further called for a culture and an attitude of putting KNUST first and to be always proud of the institution all have built together.

The immediate past vice-chancellor noted that the position of a vice-chancellor is very challenging, demanding and stressful but also fulfilling, because it is about people. On the other hand, it comes with prestige saying” today as we induct you into office which I deem as an honour, this position in my opinion is a call to service”.

He said it is service to community, everyone and all manner of persons. He used the occasion to thank management and everyone for making his term a successful one. “ I believe that by the grace of God I have served the University to the best of my abilities as God would grant me, However, this was achieved with the assistance of several distinguished personalities, individuals and institutions”.



The Chancellor administered the oath of office to Professor Kwasi Obiri-Danso. Again, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and Dr. Kwame Saarah-Mensah, Chairman of Council, robed and inducted the new vice chancellor. Most Reverend Peter Kwasi Sarpong, Archbishop Emeritus of the Catholic Diocese of Kumasi led the clergy to pray for God’s blessing for the vice-chancellor.

Professor Kwasi Obiri-Danso, the tenth Vice-Chancellor, an alumnus, has a 29-year career in the University ending as a provost of the College of Science.

From a humble beginning as an undergraduate to doctoral degree, he is a product of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology and the University of Lancaster, UK respectively.

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