Bantama MP Francis Asenso-Boakye has made a strong case for research-driven planning as the most sustainable path to solving Ghana’s growing urban development challenges.

These challenges — including unplanned settlements, housing shortages, and rising climate risks — require data, innovation, and cross-sector collaboration, the former Minister for Roads and Highways said.

He made the remarks at the commissioning of a cutting-edge Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Laboratory at the Department of Planning, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).

The lab — fully funded by the Bantama Asenso-Boakye Foundation — features 50 high-performance computers, laptops, and advanced GIS software will serve as a dynamic learning and research hub for both students and faculty.

“From land use regulation to disaster risk management, GIS allows us to act strategically and sustainably,” Mr. Asenso-Boakye stated.

“Ghana’s future depends on a new generation of planners empowered not just with theory, but with tools and real-time data to make informed, impactful decisions.”

A proud alumnus of the Department of Planning, Hon. Asenso-Boakye reflected on his own journey at KNUST, including his time as Financial Secretary and President of the student association of the then Faculty of Environmental and Development Studies.

He expressed deep gratitude to the Department and the university community for the role they played in shaping his career:

“Returning here is not only a homecoming — it is a moment of thanksgiving. I am forever grateful to this Department, to my lecturers, and to my mentors who guided my early steps. It is only right that I give back in a way that will benefit generations to come.”

He singled out Professor Emeritus Kwasi Kwafo Adarkwa, former Vice Chancellor of KNUST, for his mentorship during his student days.

Mr. Asenso-Boakye served as Prof. Adarkwa’s research assistant on a project analyzing accidents on feeder roads — an experience he said provided crucial insights that shaped his work as Minister for Roads and Highways years later.

In a major policy announcement, Hon. Asenso-Boakye revealed plans to establish a multidisciplinary Research Hub for Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure Development in partnership with the Department.

The proposed hub will focus on applied research, data-driven planning, and stakeholder collaboration to tackle Ghana’s urbanization and infrastructure challenges.

“This hub will serve as a bridge between academia and the real world — where planning meets policy, and research shapes results,” he said. “We must connect knowledge to action.”

He also called on government agencies, private sector players, international partners, and fellow alumni to support the initiative and deepen collaboration with universities in delivering solutions for Ghana’s urban future.

The event drew a distinguished audience of university officials, faculty, students, alumni, Members of Parliament, and development partners.

Professor Christian Koranteng, Dean of the Faculty of Built Environment, who represented the Provost of the College of Art and Built Environment, commended Hon. Asenso-Boakye for his exceptional vision and commitment to higher education and national development.

In his remarks, he emphasized that academic theory alone is not sufficient in today’s planning environment:

“Theoretical knowledge alone is not enough to be a master of any field. This lab provides the missing link — the opportunity for our students to apply what they learn in real, practical contexts.”

Prof. Koranteng also expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Member of Parliament, describing him as a product of the university who continues to pour back into its growth:

“You are the seed that fell on good soil. We are deeply grateful for this kind gesture.”

Professor Clifford Amoako, Head of the Department of Planning, also expressed appreciation:

“This is a powerful reminder that when alumni remain connected and committed, the impact extends far beyond classrooms. We are deeply grateful to Hon. Asenso-Boakye for his unwavering support.”

The event concluded with a tour of the new facility, which was widely praised as a game-changing addition to the university’s infrastructure, one that promises to elevate planning education in Ghana and set new standards for the region.