The Department of Environmental Science at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) recently celebrated its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of dedication to impactful research and progress in understanding and preserving the environment. The Environmental Science Programme began in August 2004 and has grown to become a leader in academic excellence, research innovation, and industry collaboration with significant impacts locally and internationally.
The celebration took place over two days, July 24th and 25th, 2024, and featured a variety of events that engaged cherished alumni and key stakeholders. The anniversary theme was “Environmental Science at 20: Our Environment, Our Future,” reflecting the department’s commitment to addressing environmental challenges through science and education.
WATCH THE ANNIVERSARY DOCUMENTARY
The first day of the celebration, July 24th, began with a launch event at the College of Science’s Allotey Auditorium. The Head of the Department welcomed dignitaries and students, emphasising the importance of protecting biodiversity, which is increasingly threatened by human activities such as mining. Professor (Mrs.) Rita Akosua Dickson, Vice-Chancellor of KNUST, delivered opening remarks, read by Professor Dadson Awunyo-Vitor, on her behalf. She highlighted the department’s contributions to the university and urged the department to continue seeking solutions to the country's environmental issues.
Professor Leonard Amekudzi, Provost of the College of Science, provided a brief history of the department's growth and achievements, noting the strong research team that has been instrumental in acquiring equipment and supporting postgraduate training. A documentary showcased the department's research, innovations, and milestones over the past 20 years.
Dr Charles Amoah, Executive Vice President and Managing Director of Asanko Gold Ltd, delivered the first keynote speech. He discussed how environmental science principles have helped the mining sector protect the environment and promote sustainability and encouraged the department to focus on collaboration with environmental organisations in its next phase.
The Environmental Science Student Association (ENSSA) presented a sketch highlighting the importance of the environment and the role of environmental science graduates in promoting environmental management. The second keynote speaker, Professor Frederick Ato Armah, Director of Research and Programmes at the Association of African Universities, spoke on job prospects in environmental science and how to become a future-proof ecological scientist. He emphasised the importance of data collection and analysis in effective environmental management.
The Head of the Department, Professor Jonathan N. Hogarh, launched a fundraising initiative to purchase a departmental bus. The dignitaries cut the anniversary cake, followed by the presentation of awards.
The second day of the celebration, July 25th, was dedicated to Alumni Connect, where notable alumni were invited to share their journeys from their student days to their current careers. The panel discussion featured distinguished alumni such as Dr Daniel Twumasi, Environmental and Sustainability Manager at Asanko Gold Ltd., Dr Jackson Adiyah Nyantakyi, Ashanti Regional Director of the EPA, Miss Vittor-Quao Amanda Enyonam, Environmental and Health Analyst at the Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources, Hon. Dr Joseph Albert Quarm, former MP of Manso Nkwanta Constituency and Chairman of Prof. Quarm Group of Companies, Mr Joe Steve, Senior Manager Occupational Safety and Health at AGAG Obuasi Mine, Miss Sahadatu Ibrahim, Safety, Health, Environment, and Quality Manager at Sandvik Mining and Construction Ghana Ltd., and Dr. Thomas Prepah Agyekum, Lecturer at the School of Public Health, KNUST.
The panellists shared their professional experiences and discussed how environmental science has shaped their careers. Students had the opportunity to ask questions about the challenges faced in the workplace and how to overcome them. The panel emphasized the importance of internships and building a positive character.
The 20th-anniversary celebration of the Department of Environmental Science was a resounding success. It provided a meaningful reflection on past achievements and a forward-looking discussion on future advancements. The event truly captured the spirit of the theme, “Environmental Science at 20: Our Environment, Our Future.”
Ayekoo to the Environmental Science Department at KNUST!
