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13th-May-2026
Science Friday, Episode 4 : Looking Through The Glass : Raman spectroscopy of concealed sample in sealed containers using shaped laser light

Historical Books Contain Toxic Substances Like Arsenic – Dr. George Dwapanyin Dr. George O. Dwapanyin, Research Fellow in Advanced Optical Imaging at the University of St Andrews, has revealed that some historical books contain hazardous substances such as arsenic, posing potential health risks to librarians, archivists, researchers and others who frequently handle them. He made the remarks during the fourth edition of ScienceFriday, organised by the KNUST Libraries to promote scientific discussion, research sharing and interdisciplinary collaboration within the university community. Dr. George O. Dwapanyin, Research Fellow in Advanced Optical Imaging at the University of St Andrews.Delivering a lecture titled “Drinks, Drugs, and Toxic Books: Recent Adventures in Spectroscopy Sensing”, Dr. Dwapanyin explained that toxic pigments used in the covers and pages of some old books could expose handlers to harmful chemicals through repeated physical contact. According to him, libraries and archives around the world are becoming increasingly aware of the dangers associated with preserving and handling certain historical collections. “Some of these books contain pigments with arsenic and other toxic compounds. If you are constantly handling them without protection, it can become dangerous over time,” he stated. To reduce the risks associated with handling such materials, Dr. Dwapanyin said he and his team have developed a non-destructive Raman scanning method that allows toxic books to be digitised and analysed while minimising physical contact. He explained that current safety measures for handling toxic books include the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), gloves, masks and the storage of hazardous books in glass cases to limit exposure. “Our goal is to make it possible to study and preserve these books without destroying them and without exposing people to unnecessary risks,” he said. Dr. Dwapanyin further described how Raman spectroscopy can identify substances through glass, coloured containers and opaque materials without opening or damaging them. “We can see whether it is methanol in a coloured bottle or a clear bottle, and we can detect contaminants as low as half a per cent,” he explained. Beyond preserving historical books, he noted that the technology could support efforts to combat counterfeit drugs in Ghana and across West Africa, where fake medications continue to pose serious public health threats. “Ghana and the West African sub-region are viable markets for fake medication. According to World Health Organisation reports, many fake anti-malaria medications come into West Africa and parts of Central Africa,” he stated. He explained that conventional methods of testing medications often require samples to be destroyed before laboratory analysis, making large-scale screening difficult and expensive. Touching on challenges affecting scientific innovation in Africa, Dr. Dwapanyin said bureaucracy and politics remain the biggest obstacles to deploying advanced technology on the continent, rather than cost or technical limitations. “The challenge is not necessarily the science or even the cost. The biggest barrier is bureaucracy and politics,” he stressed. As a long-term solution, Dr. Dwapanyin advocated local manufacturing of key scientific components such as lasers and spectrometers to reduce dependence on imports and make the technology more accessible across Africa. University Librarian, Dr. Richard Bruce Lamptey.The University Librarian, Dr. Richard Bruce Lamptey, emphasised the importance of science in solving societal challenges and promoting development. “Today’s gathering reminds us that science is not only about discoveries in laboratories, but also about finding solutions to the challenges facing our communities, our nation, and the world,” he said.  

13th-May-2026
KNUST Governing Council Appoints Professor Christian Agyare as 13th Vice-Chancellor

KNUST Governing Council Appoints Professor Christian Agyare as 13th Vice-Chancellor  Published: 13th May 2026  Source: University Relations Office (URO)   The Governing Council of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi at its 292nd (Special) Meeting held on Wednesday, 13th May 2026 appointed Professor Christian Agyare as the Vice-Chancellor of the University for a Four (4) – Year Term of office effective 1st August, 2026 to 31st July, 2030. Professor Agyare succeeds Professor (Mrs.) Rita Akosua Dickson, whose tenure of office officially ends on 31st July 2026. His appointment makes him the 13th Vice-Chancellor of KNUST since the University was established on 6th October 1951. A distinguished academic, globally recognised researcher and accomplished institutional leader, Professor Christian Agyare brings to the office more than two and a half decades of dedicated service to KNUST and the international academic community. Widely respected for his transformational leadership, strategic vision and outstanding contributions to pharmaceutical sciences and higher education management. He currently serves as Provost of the College of Health Sciences, the University’s largest and most complex academic college. Professor Agyare obtained his Bachelor of Pharmacy and Master of Pharmacy degrees from KNUST before earning a Doctor rerum naturalium (Dr. rer. nat.) degree from the University of Münster, Muenster, Germany. He subsequently held postdoctoral and research appointments at Novartis/Seeding Labs in Boston and at the University of California, San Francisco, where he worked on cutting-edge discovery in parasitic diseases and advanced pharmaceutical research. These international experiences shaped his global outlook and positioned him within influential scientific and academic networks across the world. As a renowned Professor of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Professor Agyare has authored more than 200 peer-reviewed research publications and earned an H-index of 36, an i10-index of 84 and over 5,000 citations. His remarkable scholarly output has earned him recognition among top scientists globally and among the top 100 researchers in Ghana in the AD Scientific Index 2026 rankings. His research expertise spans natural products pharmacology, antimicrobial resistance, wound healing, ethnopharmacology, parasitology and anticancer drug discovery with immense relevance to healthcare delivery and scientific advancement in Africa and beyond. Over the years, he has secured more than USD 11 million in competitive research grants and funding support from internationally respected organisations, including the German Research Foundation (DFG), German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), the Mastercard Foundation and the World Bank. His global academic standing is further demonstrated by his election as the first African member of the Board of Directors of the Society of Medicinal Plant and Natural Product Research (GA), as well as his membership on the editorial boards of more than thirty international journals. He is also a Fellow of both the Ghana College of Pharmacists and the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana. Professor Agyare has held several strategic leadership positions at KNUST, serving on the University Executive Committee, Academic Board, Planning and Resources Committee, Budgetary Committee, and the Appointments and Promotions Committee. As Head of the Quality Assurance and Planning Unit (now Quality Assurance and Planning Office) from 2016 to 2020, he spearheaded far-reaching institutional reforms that significantly strengthened governance, accountability and operational efficiency within the University. Under his leadership, KNUST introduced innovative online systems for staff appraisal, departmental and environmental rankings, and research supervision assessments. He also coordinated the University’s first five (5)-year cyclical accreditation review and facilitated the development of thirty-three (33) out of KNUST’s forty-five (45) institutional policies. One of his landmark achievements during this period was the introduction of a multipurpose smart identification card system integrating biometric identification, access control and financial transaction features for staff and students. Since assuming office as Provost of the College of Health Sciences in August 2020, Professor Agyare has led a remarkable transformation at the College, overseeing the introduction of sixteen postgraduate and eight undergraduate programmes, significant increases in postgraduate enrolment and graduation rates, and major infrastructure expansion projects. Beyond KNUST, he has contributed significantly to higher education policy and quality assurance systems across Africa, including serving as an international quality assurance expert for the Namibia Council for Higher Education. Professor Agyare is also recognised for his commitment to mentorship, gender equity and human capital development. He is a Fellow of the L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Foundation and has consistently championed the academic and professional advancement of female researchers and graduate students. His vision for KNUST is anchored on advancing science, technology, research, innovation, sustainability, entrepreneurship and student-centred-training for sustainable national and global development. His leadership philosophy is rooted in adaptive governance, technology-driven transformation, sustainable resource management and strategic partnerships aimed at positioning KNUST as a globally competitive institution. Professor Christian Agyare is a distinguished alumnus of Prempeh College, a respected practising pharmacist and a committed community leader. He is married to Dr. (Pharm.) Charlotte Sena Agyare, and together they are blessed with three children. He is also an active member of the Kwadaso Methodist Church.

25th-Apr-2026
Science Friday, Episode 3: Vision Revolution : The Science behind better eye care

Dr. Kwadwo Owusu Akuffo, Senior Lecturer at the Department of Optometry and Visual Science, has raised concern over the rising cases of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) among young people and professionals, warning that prolonged screen use is quietly straining the eyes of many Ghanaians. Speaking at the third edition of Science Friday, an academic engagement platform organised by KNUST Libraries to promote scientific discussion, research sharing, and interdisciplinary collaboration, he addressed the theme “Vision Revolution: The Science Behind Better Eye Care.” “Computer Vision Syndrome is a group of eye and vision problems resulting from prolonged screen use. When we stare at screens for long periods, our blink rate reduces, leading to dry eyes. At the same time, continuous near focus causes fatigue, while glare and poor posture increase visual stress,” he explained. He noted that common symptoms include eye strain, dryness, irritation, blurred vision, headaches, and even neck and shoulder pain, conditions many people often ignore until they worsen. To curb the condition, Dr. Owusu Akuffo emphasized simple but effective preventive measures, particularly the 20-20-20 rule, which involves looking away from the screen every 20 minutes at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. “Keep your screen at a distance of about 50 to 70 centimetres and position it slightly below eye level. Blink more often, ensure proper lighting, and use the right prescription glasses where necessary,” he advised. Beyond digital eye strain, he highlighted the broader challenge of preventable vision loss, revealing that nearly 90% of vision problems can be avoided with early detection and proper care. Dr. Owusu Akuffo also spotlighted the role of the KNUST Low Vision Centre, which provides specialized assessments and assistive devices such as magnifiers and electronic aids for individuals with irreversible vision loss, while training eye care professionals across the country. He urged the public to adopt healthy eye care habits, including regular eye examinations, wearing UV-protective sunglasses, and maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E. He called on Ghanaians to prioritize routine eye checks and proactive care to prevent avoidable vision loss. “If you close your eyes for a minute, you will begin to imagine the life many people live in darkness and blindness,’’ he said.

25th-Apr-2026
Book Aid International Donates Books to Support KNUST Library Expansion

The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST) Library has received a new consignment of books from Book Aid International to enrich its collections, facilitated by former University Librarian, Dr. Helena Asamoah-Hassan. Dr. Helena Asamoah-Hassan.The initiative was described as a continuation of her longstanding commitment to literacy development and library outreach. Dr Asamoah-Hassan explained that the donation forms part of an ongoing partnership with Book Aid International, aimed at providing quality books to children’s libraries, secondary schools and selected tertiary institutions across the country. “When I learned that the children’s libraries at KNUST were reopening, I felt it was important to include them in our next distribution. I’m praying that as new consignments arrive, the KNUST Library will always be kept in mind,” she said. Dr Asamoah-Hassan added that similar donations have benefited children’s hospitals and community libraries, reinforcing her belief that access to reading materials is central to education and social development. After serving KNUST for 14 years, she said returning to contribute again felt deeply meaningful. “I’m happy to be back and to support the office I once sat in,” she said. University Librarian, Dr. Richard Bruce Lamptey.The University Librarian, Dr. Richard Bruce Lamptey, expressed appreciation for Dr Asamoah-Hassan’s leadership. “We are very happy that she is here to support us and register the new books,” he said.

18th-Apr-2026
Science Friday Episode 2 : Deadlines Are Temporary, Your Health Is Not, KNUST Lecturer Calls for Balance

 Published: 10th Apr 2026   Dr. (Mrs.) Mary Amoako, Senior Lecturer at the Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), has urged students and staff to prioritise their health over academic and work pressures, warning that unmanaged stress can have serious physiological and psychological consequences. Speaking at the second edition of the ScienceFriday Series organised by the KNUST Library System, Dr. Amoako emphasised that while deadlines are inevitable in academic environments, health must remain a top priority. “Deadlines are temporary, your health is not,” she stressed. Dr. Amoako explained that stress triggers the release of cortisol, a hormone that, when persistently elevated, can negatively affect the body. According to her, high cortisol levels influence eating behaviours by disrupting hunger-regulating hormones such as ghrelin and leptin. She noted that individuals respond differently to stress. “There are some individuals who will undereat because they are stressed, others will overeat and crave fatty and sugary foods, while some develop irregular eating patterns,” she explained. She highlighted findings from several cross-sectional studies that reveal troubling trends among university students. One study involving 180 students across various colleges found that over 60 percent had limited access to food, with about two-thirds lacking sufficient meals, a situation she said has direct implications for mental health. Another study cited from her studies indicated that students experiencing high levels of stress recorded higher blood pressure compared to their less-stressed counterparts. A third study comparing teaching and non-teaching staff also revealed significant stress-related health patterns. Dr. Amoako outlined common behavioural signs of stress, including fatigue, headaches, anxiety, poor concentration, appetite changes, and feelings of being overwhelmed. To address these challenges, she encouraged practical lifestyle adjustments. “Fix your sleep and wake-up times, plan your day and your meals, engage in regular physical activity, and most importantly, address the root cause of your stress,” she advised She also urged students and staff to seek early support, pointing to the availability of wellness and counselling services on campus. On nutrition, Dr. Amoako advised individuals to prioritise whole foods, including whole grains, fruits, vegetables, healthy proteins, and oils, while staying well hydrated, especially during stressful periods. “Stress has the potency of affecting behaviour, especially eating habits, and this varies from person to person,” she added.  University Librarian, Dr. Richard Bruce Lamptey The University Librarian, Dr. Richard Bruce Lamptey, noted that the Science Friday Series is designed to promote the wellbeing of both staff and students. “Our aim is not only to meet targets but also to prevent situations where we sacrifice our health in the process,” he said. He described the theme of the session as timely and relevant in a fast-paced academic environment where pressure often leads to neglect of personal wellbeing. “Success is not measured only by deadlines met, papers submitted, or projects completed, but also by the wellbeing we preserve along the way,” he said. He called on the university community to consciously balance productivity with wellness to ensure sustainable success.

24th-Mar-2026
KNUST Library Senior Management Trained in Microsoft 365 to Boost Digital Productivity

  Senior management staff of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST) Library have undergone training in Microsoft 365 to strengthen digital productivity and service delivery. The training forms part of a broader capacity-building initiative aimed at improving collaboration, workflow efficiency and the use of digital tools across the library system. Opening the session, Library Registrar Ms. Felicia Amankwah, who spearheaded the initiative, described the programme as “the long-awaited” first phase of a three-part training series designed to enhance staff skills, engagement and knowledge in essential digital platforms used in their daily operations. She urged participants to actively engage in the sessions and adhere to basic training protocols, including accessing programme materials via a QR code. Lead facilitator Mr. Caleb Tweneboah provided an overview of Microsoft 365 as a subscription-based suite of productivity tools, including Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, Stream, SharePoint and OneDrive. He highlighted its cloud-based capabilities, which enable users to access documents remotely, receive automatic updates and collaborate in real time. He said the platform offers flexibility in managing storage and user access, while enhancing seamless communication and document sharing across teams. A significant component of the training focused on digital security, with participants taken through practical steps to safeguard personal and institutional data. Mr. Tweneboah demonstrated how to identify phishing attempts and suspicious email formats, cautioning staff against malicious senders who mimic legitimate addresses. Participants also engaged in hands-on demonstrations of Outlook and Teams, with practical guidance on how the tools can be used to streamline communication and coordination within the library. The training is expected to continue with additional sessions under the three-phase programme, as the KNUST Library intensifies efforts to leverage digital technologies to improve operational efficiency and service delivery.

14th-Mar-2026
KNUST Library Launches ‘ScienceFriday’ Series Initiative to Promote Scientific Dialogue

The Library System of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST) has launched a new academic engagement platform known as ‘ScienceFriday’, aimed at encouraging scientific discussion, research sharing and interdisciplinary collaboration within the university community. The initiative brought together students, researchers, faculty members and library staff to explore scientific ideas and emerging research. University Librarian, Dr. Richard Bruce Lamptey, welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of making science accessible to everyone. “Science is a very powerful thing,” he said. “If you are not careful, you will think that it is only for clever students or those with very sharp brains. This programme is going to demystify science and mathematics and many of the things we think are difficult about science.” He emphasised the evolving role of academic libraries, describing them as active partners in the research and innovation process. “The KNUST Library System, as the intellectual hub of the University, is committed not only to providing access to information resources but also to supporting the entire research life cycle, from discovery of information to knowledge creation and dissemination,” he said. He also commended library staff and other university personnel for their efforts in organising the programme, noting that their dedication demonstrates the continuing importance of libraries in fostering academic dialogue. Dr. Cyril Dziedzorm Boateng, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Physics, delivered a presentation exploring how modern geophysical techniques, including drones and ground-penetrating radar, were used to uncover historical artefacts at a long-lost 18th-century fort in Ghana’s Central Region. He also highlighted a key challenge faced by Europeans when constructing coastal forts: access to fresh water. “Since Europeans could not drink seawater, they had to create underground cisterns, either carved directly from rock or constructed using bricks brought on their ships,” Dr. Boateng said. He encouraged students to visit the exhibition at the KNUST Museum, where artefacts, photographs, maps and scientific results from the project are currently on display. “When you see the exhibition, you will understand the full story,” he said. “It will help you appreciate how science connects to our history.” Dr. Boateng also advised students not to limit themselves to only their fields of study. “Do not box yourself in,” he said. “Be open to learning. Be curious. Science is everywhere.”

25th-Feb-2026
KNUST, Book Aid International Discuss Partnership Opportunities to Boost Medical Library Collections

The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST) and Book Aid International are initiating discussions on a potential partnership aimed at strengthening donation of medical and health sciences resources at the University’s library. The Chief Executive of Book Aid International, Alison Tweed, said their visit to KNUST was to assess opportunities to support KNUST with up-to-date medical textbooks and reference materials. ‘‘We are here to discuss possibility of donating medical books to the KNUST library,’’ she said. Alison explained that the organization works closely with leading global publishers, noting that its primary medical donor is Elsevier, alongside contributions from SAGE Publications, Oxford University Press, Cambridge University Press, and Pearson. “In an average year, we distribute about 80,000 medical books to partners across Africa, including teaching hospitals, university departments, and health training institutions,” the representative stated. “Our visit to KNUST is to understand your acquisition strategies and explore how we can work together to supply relevant medical books for your collections.” She emphasized their organization’s commitment to quality and relevance, indicating that donated books are typically no more than five years old and largely consist of new titles. The organization also highlighted its tailored selection approach, which is guided by needs assessment forms completed by partner institutions. “We pride ourselves on listening closely to our partners’ requirements,” Alison added. “Whether it is nursing, midwifery, orthopaedics, or other specialisms, our goal is to ensure the books we send are aligned with institutional priorities.” Dr Bruce Lamptey, University Librarian, outlined the University’s collection development strategy, explaining that academic resources are centrally procured and distributed across colleges, with additional subject-specific acquisitions undertaken at the college level. The Provost of the College of Health Sciences, Professor Christian Agyare welcomed the initiative, describing access to current medical literature as critical for teaching, learning, and research. Discussions also addressed logistical considerations, particularly customs clearance and associated charges.

11th-Dec-2025
KNUST Library System Welcomes 2025/2026 National Service Personnel

KNUST Library System Welcomes 2025/2026 National Service Personnel   The KNUST Library System officially welcomed its 2025/2026 batch of National Service Personnel on 8th December, 2025, at the Prempeh II Library Building. The orientation brought together newly posted personnel, senior members of the library system, and departmental heads to familiarize the personnel with the operations and expectations of the system. The session was opened by the University Librarian, Dr. Richard Bruce Lamptey, who warmly welcomed the new personnel and congratulated them on their posting. In his address, Dr. Lamptey emphasized the importance of professionalism, discipline, teamwork, and a strong desire to learn. He reminded them that the National Service period is a unique opportunity that will add immensely to their knowledge base, especially within an academic environment that thrives on research, innovation, and effective information management. The personnel were later introduced to the various departments within the KNUST Library System. Heads of units explained their roles, highlighted ongoing activities, and described how each department supports the university’s teaching, learning, and research agenda. This guided the personnel to understand the workflows, expectations, and the collaborative nature of library services at KNUST. Dr. Lamptey encouraged them to work hard, noting that the attitude they bring to the role will significantly influence the value they gain from the service year. He urged them to stay committed, ask questions, and embrace the learning experience fully. The orientation concluded with an interactive session where the personnel engaged the facilitators with questions and shared their expectations for the year. The KNUST Library System looks forward to a productive and impactful year with the new National Service Personnel and remains dedicated to fostering a supportive environment for growth and professional development.  

20th-Nov-2025
KNUST Library at Forefront as COPYGHANA and IFRRO Push Collective Licensing for Academic Integrity.

The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) Library has taken a frontline role in strengthening copyright compliance across Ghana’s tertiary education sector, partnering with the Reproduction Rights Organisation of Ghana (COPYGHANA) and the International Federation of Reproduction Rights Organisations (IFRRO) to train universities on collective licensing and responsible use of academic materials. The event brought together legal scholars, international experts, authors, publishers, librarians and practitioners from copyright bodies including the Copyright Licensing Agency (UK) and the Copyright Clearance Center (US). Participants examined strategies to ensure that creators receive due recognition while supporting the ethical use of educational materials. KNUST University Librarian, Dr. Richard Bruce Lamptey, said copyright compliance is not only a legal mandate but a scholarly responsibility. He emphasised that academic integrity, research sustainability and the economic viability of authors depend on respect for copyright. He noted that KNUST plays a “dual identity” in the copyright ecosystem, both as a major consumer of academic materials and as a producer of knowledge through its researchers, authors and innovators and therefore must uphold strong copyright practices to protect its intellectual community. Acknowledging the complexity of enforcement, he said, “The challenge before us is simple to articulate but difficult to execute.” Justice of the Court of Appeal, Dr. Poku Adusei, addressed the long-standing balance in copyright law between private rights and public access to knowledge. Drawing on jurisprudence from English, American, Canadian and Ghanaian courts, he said copyright must incentivise creativity while avoiding rules that impede cultural progress. “Comparative experience has confirmed that copyright balances two competing interests: the public interest and the private interest,” he stated. He outlined five key lessons for tertiary institutions and cautioned against rampant free-riding on intellectual property, urging respect for fair-dealing principles, institutional responsibility and strict adherence to the law. He concluded, “There is no way out than for our tertiary institutions to respect the laws on copyright.” International copyright expert Olav Stokkmo, consultant to WIPO and IFRRO, presented data showing that only one percent of students pay for the intellectual property they use, despite almost all relying heavily on authors’ works. He said this underscores the urgent need for systems that ensure proper recognition and compensation for creators. The workshop featured two high-level panel discussions. The first, “Copyright Compliance in Ghanaian Universities,” included contributions from Dr. Lucy Afeafa Ry-Kottoh, Richard Obeng Mensah, Ernest Oppong and Dr. Wale Okediran, with an intervention from Sheila Narki Djagmah of the Copyright Office. Panelists discussed measures to build copyright-aware academic environments and reduce infringement on university campuses. A second panel, “Looking Forward: From Digital to AI,” led by James Bennett (CLA, UK) and Victoriano Colodrón (CCC, US), explored copyright implications of rapid digital transformation and artificial intelligence in higher education. Dr. Adusei reiterated that collective licensing remains the most sustainable and efficient mechanism for copyright enforcement in tertiary institutions. He encouraged continued engagement with copyright law as a way of strengthening institutional compliance and safeguarding the intellectual property of creators.

08th-Nov-2025
Speech by the new University Librarian (Dr. Richard Bruce Lamptey), KNUST.

*At the First Meeting with Library Staff* Good morning, distinguished colleagues, It is with deep humility and great enthusiasm that I stand before you today as the new University Librarian of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. I am truly honoured to join this community of dedicated professionals who have worked tirelessly to uphold the reputation and excellence of our University Library — one of the finest in the nation and indeed on the African continent. First and foremost, I wish to express my heartfelt appreciation to my predecessor and to all of you, the hardworking staff, for your unwavering commitment to service, scholarship, and innovation. The successes the KNUST Library has achieved over the years are a testament to your collective effort, creativity, and resilience. As we begin this new chapter together, I see our library not just as a storehouse of knowledge, but as a dynamic centre for learning, research, and collaboration — a place where technology meets tradition, and where ideas can flourish freely. Our mission remains clear: to support teaching, learning, and research by providing timely access to relevant information resources and services. However, the landscape of librarianship is changing rapidly. The digital age presents both challenges and exciting opportunities. We must therefore continue to innovate — embracing digital transformation, strengthening our information literacy programmes, expanding access to electronic resources, and ensuring that our spaces remain vibrant, inclusive, and user-centred. I believe strongly in teamwork and open communication. Each one of you — from the senior librarian to the newest assistant — plays an integral role in the success of this institution. Your insights, creativity, and passion will guide our collective journey forward. My leadership philosophy is rooted in collaboration, transparency, and mutual respect. I encourage us all to share ideas, ask questions, and work together as one strong KNUST Library family. In the coming weeks, I will be meeting with various sections and units to learn more about your work, challenges, and aspirations. Together, we will develop a shared vision and a strategic plan that aligns with the broader goals of the university — a plan that will position KNUST Library as a model of excellence in academic librarianship across Africa. Let us approach this journey with renewed energy, a spirit of innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. The future of the KNUST Library is bright — and together, we will make it even brighter. Thank you, and I look forward to working closely with each of you. *Ayekoo, and may we continue to uphold the proud tradition of KNUST — *“Nyansapo wosane no badwen ba” — “The knot of wisdom is untied by the wise.”

05th-Nov-2025
Dr. Richard Bruce Lamptey has officially assumed duty as the new University Librarian of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi.

Dr. Richard Bruce Lamptey has officially assumed duty as the new University Librarian of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, pledging to lead with collaboration, innovation, and openness as the library embraces digital transformation. Addressing staff at his first engagement meeting, Dr. Lamptey said he was “deeply honoured” to join a community of dedicated professionals whose work has sustained one of the nation’s most respected academic libraries. “It is with deep humility and great enthusiasm that I stand before you today as the new University Librarian,” he said. “I am truly honoured to join this community of dedicated professionals who have worked tirelessly to uphold the reputation and excellence of our University Library, one of the finest in the nation and indeed on the African continent.” He expressed appreciation to his predecessor, Dr. Samuel Kotei Nikoi, and commended all staff for their “unwavering commitment to service, scholarship, and innovation.” “Our library is not just a storehouse of knowledge but a dynamic centre for learning, research, and collaboration; a place where technology meets tradition, and where ideas can flourish freely,” Dr. Lamptey remarked. “Our mission remains clear: to support teaching, learning, and research by providing timely access to relevant information resources and services.” Emphasising the rapidly changing landscape of librarianship, he called on staff to embrace digital tools and innovation. “The digital age presents both challenges and exciting opportunities. We must therefore continue to innovate by strengthening information literacy, expanding access to electronic resources, and ensuring our spaces remain vibrant, inclusive, and user-centred,” he said. Dr. Lamptey reaffirmed his commitment to teamwork and transparent leadership. “Each one of you, from the senior librarian to the newest assistant, plays an integral role in our success. My leadership philosophy is rooted in collaboration, transparency, and mutual respect,” he noted. “Let us share ideas, ask questions, and work together as one strong KNUST Library family.” He announced plans to meet various library sections in the coming weeks to discuss their work, challenges, and aspirations toward developing a shared strategic plan aligned with the university’s vision. “Together, we will position KNUST Library as a model of excellence in academic librarianship across Africa,” he said. “The future of the KNUST Library is bright, and together, we will make it even brighter.” The session also introduced Mrs. Felicia Amankwah, the new Senior Assistant Registrar, who succeeds Mrs. Janet Ampah, and Dr. Edward Mensah Borteye, who assumes the role of Deputy University Librarian. Both outgoing officers were commended for their dedicated service. Mrs. Amankwah urged staff to “work collaboratively, uphold mutual respect, and maintain open communication in pursuit of excellence,” while reaffirming her commitment to supporting the library’s administrative efficiency.