
KNUST Strengthens China–Ghana Academic Ties as New Confucius Institute Leadership Meets Vice-Chancellor.

The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has taken another step toward deepening its international partnerships following a courtesy visit by the newly appointed Chinese Director of the Confucius Institute, Professor Ke Ningli, and a team of newly assigned Chinese language instructors.

The delegation paid a formal visit to the Vice-Chancellor of KNUST, Professor (Mrs.) Rita Akosua Dickson, at the University’s Council Chamber on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. The meeting served as an official introduction of the new leadership and teaching staff of the Confucius Institute and highlighted renewed commitments to academic collaboration between KNUST and its Chinese partner institution, the Hubei University of Automotive Technology (HUAT).

During the interaction, Professor Ke Ningli commended KNUST for its welcoming academic environment and outlined strategic plans to expand cooperation in teaching, research, and innovation. He revealed ongoing efforts to establish a specialised research laboratory in engineering and new energy, supported by a funding application already submitted to the Chinese Government. According to him, the initiative is in line with global sustainability goals, particularly efforts to address climate change through science and technological innovation.

In response, the Vice-Chancellor expressed appreciation for the longstanding and productive partnership between KNUST and its Chinese collaborators. She described the relationship as one that continues to deliver meaningful outcomes in education, research, and community service. Professor Dickson reaffirmed the University’s commitment to partnerships that are practical, impactful, and aligned with institutional development goals.

She further assured the Confucius Institute of KNUST’s full support, including the provision of space and institutional resources required for the successful execution of proposed projects. Emphasising the value of open communication, she noted that sustained dialogue remains essential for addressing challenges and ensuring the long-term success of collaborative initiatives.

Adding to the discussion, the Ghanaian Director of the Confucius Institute and Head of the Department of Architecture, Professor Daniel Y. A. Duah, disclosed plans to engage various academic units, including the College of Engineering and the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, to broaden joint teaching, research, and innovation activities across disciplines.

The meeting was attended by senior officials from the International Programmes Office, including Prof. Edmund Ekuadzi, Dean of IPO; Dr. Daniel Norris Bekoe, Deputy Registrar at the University Relations Office; Mrs. Yvonne Baiden, Senior Assistant Registrar; Mrs. Evelyn Safowaa Asante; Ms. Ernestine Oheneba Danso; and Miss Patricia Frimpong Manso.

By: Aboagye Yaw Ankomah
