The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has achieved global recognition as the best university for providing quality education under Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4). This recognition was announced in the 2023 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, which assess universities based on their contributions to the United Nations’ SDGs.
In the fifth edition of the Impact Rankings, which included 1,591 universities from 112 countries/regions, KNUST emerged as the top-ranking institution worldwide with a remarkable score of 93.1. The rankings evaluate universities across four key areas: research, stewardship, outreach, and teaching.
SDG 4 specifically focuses on evaluating universities’ efforts in early years and lifelong learning, research, and inclusive education. In this category, KNUST competed against 1,304 universities from 109 countries/regions.
The Vice-Chancellor of KNUST, Prof. (Mrs.) Rita Akosua Dickson, attributed the university’s achievement to the substantial investments made by the institution’s management over the years. These investments have been directed towards infrastructure development, ICT resources, and e-learning tools, all of which have significantly enhanced the educational experience at KNUST.
Under the leadership of Prof. Mrs. Rita Akosua Dickson, the university launched the Support One Needy Student with One Laptop (SONSOL) program, which aims to bridge the digital divide by providing laptops to talented but financially disadvantaged students.
Furthermore, KNUST has offered various scholarships that cover accommodation, food, clothing, and special vehicles to improve the mobility of individuals with disabilities. These initiatives reflect the university’s commitment to inclusivity.
Dr. Daniel Norris Bekoe, the University Relations Officer, commended the proactive implementation of policies related to gender, anti-sexual harassment, mentorship, quality assurance, teaching and learning, research, and professional evaluation of teaching and disability. These policies ensure high-quality services and protect the welfare of vulnerable members within the university community.
The institution also supports emerging researchers through financial aid and encourages impactful research initiatives with transformative implications for the university.
Dr. Bekoe emphasized the importance of sustaining diligence and perseverance among staff and students. KNUST aims to nurture students who not only possess deep knowledge in their fields but also exemplify exemplary character traits. By adhering to this principle, KNUST strives to equip its students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel locally and globally.
The significant achievement of being recognized as the best university in the world for providing quality education is a testament to the collective efforts and unwavering commitment of the entire KNUST community.
