Prof. Christian Agyare in a photograph with Otumfuo and others
PROF. CHRISTIAN Agyare, a renowned pharmaceutical scientist, has officially started work as the Vice Chancellor (VC) of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) following his induction over the weekend.
The induction ceremony was supervised by the Chancellor of KNUST, His Royal Majesty, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, and it was graced by the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, who represented President John Mahama, the academia and other dignitaries.
Prof. Agyare has now succeeded Prof. Mrs. Rita Akosua Dickson, the first female VC of KNUST, under whose tenure the university chalked significant and landmark successes in the areas of academic and infrastructure, among others.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, in his address, highlighted the successful tenure of Prof. Mrs. Dickson and admonished the new KNUST VC to continue the extraordinary works of his predecessor to benefit the academic institution and the country in general.
“Prof, as you assume this high and respectable office, you follow an accomplished leader whose tenure has left an indelible imprint on KNUST. Prof. Mrs. Akosua Dickson, served with distinction and unwavering commitment.
“Her unique leadership style has greatly advanced the university’s growth and strengthened its reputation both locally and abroad. The future of KNUST lies in continuing programmes and projects that deliver real development for mother Ghana.
“Your responsibility, therefore, is not to redefine the destination but to provide the leadership, vision, and stewardship needed to guide the university community faithfully and purposefully towards it,” the KNUST Chancellor stated.
Otumfuo also entreated Prof. Agyare to consult for advice and positive direction when necessary, reminding him that good leaders aside respecting and listening to the people they lead, also consult widely before they take decisions.
“Universities thrive through consultation rather than command. You are going to lead a community of scholars, professionals, administrators, students, and workers contributing in unique ways to the advancement of the KNUST,” he disclosed.
President Mahama, in a speech read on his behalf by the Chief of Staff, charged the KNUST to produce highly motivated, hardworking, patriotic and smart graduates who will help the country to turn away from importing products.
According to him, “Industries grow through knowledge, skilled people, patient investment, and practical innovation,” pointing out that KNUST clearly has the wherewithal to support the country to push forward into affluence.
He also commended the Asantehene for his invaluable contributions to the educational development in the country, noting that the KNUST, in particular, has benefited immensely from the wide knowledge and experience of Otumfuo.
Prof. Christian Agyare promised to lead a KNUST that focuses on raising entrepreneurial job-creators, saying, “A university that teaches without innovating and researches without creating has only done half of its work.
“The vision for KNUST is one where knowledge does not reside solely in lecture halls, studios, and laboratories, but walks out of our gates to change the world and transform lives,” he indicated, calling for support from all-and-sundry.
Prof. Agyare is a renowned pharmaceutical scientist, researcher, and educator, who held multiple senior management and executive positions within KNUST prior to his appointment as the Vice Chancellor on August 1, 2026.