KNUST Alumnus Becomes Youngest Associate Professor of Geophysics at University of Ghana at 34.
A proud alumnus of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, has achieved a remarkable academic milestone at the age of 34.
Eric Dominic Forson has been promoted to Associate Professor in Geophysics at the University of Ghana, becoming the youngest scholar to attain the rank in his field at the institution.
His promotion forms part of a cohort of nearly 20 academics advanced under the University of Ghana’s newly implemented governance framework, a system designed to strengthen merit-based academic progression.
For Prof. Forson, the achievement marks the culmination of a journey that began at KNUST more than a decade ago. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics in June 2014, laying a strong foundation in the physical sciences. He proceeded to obtain an MPhil in Geophysics in July 2017 and later completed a PhD in Geophysics in August 2020.
Currently, Prof. Forson specialises in geophysics and geodata analytics, an interdisciplinary field that integrates machine learning, geospatial modelling, remote sensing, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). His research contributes to predictive modelling in mineral resource exploration, groundwater assessment, geohazard studies, and geological mapping—areas critical to Ghana’s sustainable development.
Reflecting on his academic journey, Prof. Forson credited his training at KNUST as instrumental to his success. He described the rigorous academic environment as one that equipped him not only with technical expertise but also with resilience, critical thinking, and an innovative mindset.
He expressed particular gratitude to his MPhil and PhD supervisor, Prof. Aboagye Menyeh, whose mentorship he described as pivotal to his development. According to him, the guidance and confidence reposed in him enabled him to complete his PhD within three years instead of the usual four, strengthening his discipline and resolve.
Prof. Forson further highlighted the culture of academic excellence and exposure to cutting-edge research at KNUST as key influences that shaped his long-term vision. He noted that this solid grounding ultimately positioned him to rise to the rank of Associate Professor at a relatively young age.
He remains deeply grateful to his alma mater and hopes his journey will inspire current students to pursue excellence with commitment and confidence.
His achievement stands not only as a personal milestone but also as a testament to KNUST’s enduring contribution to nurturing scientists and scholars who are shaping national and global development.