Vice Chancellor of Kumasi Technical University (KsTU), Professor Gabriel Dwomoh, says the 70th anniversary of the University is a strategic turning point for stronger collaboration to drive the institution's next phase of transformation.

Reflecting on the institution’s journey from a technical institute in 1954 to a key player in Ghana’s industrialisation agenda, Prof Dwomoh emphasized that the anniversary is not just about celebrating the past but shaping a future anchored on innovation, relevance, and impact.

That vision was crystallized in a direct appeal to stakeholders to support the university’s new strategic focus.

“It is an invitation to our partners, the government, and the private sector to join us as we embark on the next phase of our journey. That is, focusing on digitalization, artificial intelligence, and sustainable engineering,” he said.

In line with this direction, the university showcased a range of innovations in STEM and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), including its flagship ‘Nimde3 Hyiren’ Regenerative Electric Vehicle (REV), developed in partnership with industry to address real-world challenges.

Responding to the call for partnership, the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Frank Amoakohene, reaffirmed government’s commitment to the university, pledging sustained investment to support infrastructure, academic excellence, and a conducive learning environment.

“We are ever ready to ensure our contribution towards the infrastructural development of the campus and ensuring that we promote academic excellence and also promote a very conducive environment for teaching and learning,” he said.

He further stressed the importance of collaboration, urging stronger ties between Kumasi Technical University (KsTU) and Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) to drive practical solutions to regional and national challenges.

While government’s assurance reinforced the university’s growth agenda, the Director-General of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission, Prof Ahmed Jinapor Abdulai, addressed concerns over regulatory actions within the tertiary education space, particularly on fee increments.

“More instructive is the coincidence of GTEC asking a publicly funded university to reverse fee increasement of some 100-200% because approval had not been granted by the statutory mandated bodies of the state, and a Union of same institution calling for our heads,” he explained.

He dismissed claims of overreach and lack of engagement, stating that “in recent times, some colleagues in the tertiary education delivery landscape described myself and my deputy as incompetent, asking us to resign for ‘overreaching’ powers. The irony here, Mr Chairman, is that we were never given the chance to respond either in person or in writing,” he said.

Reassuring the university’s leadership, he clarified that the Commission’s role is to complement, not override, institutional authority.

“GTEC does not intend to usurp your powers as a council, nor do we see ourselves as adversaries in the dispensation of your legal responsibilities as the highest decision-making body of this institution. The Commission recognizes and respects your enviable position and will do everything to protect it,” he added.

The 70th anniversary celebration, under the theme "70 Years of Transformative Technical Education: Honoring Our Legacy, Shaping the Future," brought together alumni, chiefs, and dignitaries, highlighting the university’s legacy, its partnerships, and its role in equipping students with industry-ready skills while promoting innovation, skills development, and international collaboration.