The Head of the Department of Biological Sciences at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi Professor Alexander Kofi Anning, has urged first-year students to embrace discipline, curiosity and resilience as they begin their studies, describing biological sciences as one of the most critical fields for addressing global challenges.
Speaking at the orientation of the Department of Theoretical and Applied Biology, Prof. Anning noted that in a period marked by climate change, emerging diseases, food insecurity, biodiversity loss and environmental degradation, biological sciences play a central role in addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
Professor Anning said graduates of the programme form part of a diverse alumni network contributing across multiple sectors of the national economy and to global sustainable development.
He stressed, however, that university education in the sciences is rigorous and demands discipline, curiosity, integrity, teamwork and resilience. Students, he said, are expected to attend lectures and practical sessions regularly, read beyond lecture notes, ask questions, think critically and adhere strictly to academic honesty.
Professor Anning acknowledged that students would encounter academic challenges, including difficult courses and assessments, but said such experiences are an integral part of scientific training rather than indicators of failure.
He also encouraged them to take advantage of opportunities in research, student societies, fieldwork and mentorship, noting that the next four years would shape both their professional careers and their broader contribution to society.
