KNUST Registrar Sets Out Capacity-Building and Reform Agenda for Administrators
The Registrar of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST), Mr. Benjamin Boampong Owusu, has outlined a broad capacity-building and strategic reform agenda for administrative staff.
He emphasized professional development, grant acquisition, policy review and institutional effectiveness.
Speaking at an inaugural engagement with Junior and Assistant Registrars from the Registrar’s Offices, Mr. Owusu said strengthening the capacity of administrators remains critical to advancing the University's strategic objectives and improving service delivery.
“As registrars, we need to have a series of training to build our capacity,” he said.
As part of the agenda, the Registrar encouraged administrative staff to actively pursue grant opportunities and collaborate with academic colleagues in developing proposals to attract external funding for institutional projects.
He noted that grant acquisition should not be viewed solely as the domain of academic staff.
“It’s not only academics who can write for grants. There are so many opportunities for non-academics,” he stated.
To support this objective, Mr. Owusu announced plans for proposal-writing training sessions scheduled for June 8 and 9, 2026, to equip administrators with the skills required to identify funding opportunities and develop competitive grant proposals.
The Registrar also highlighted ongoing efforts to review key institutional policies and urged staff to carefully study the documents and provide constructive input to strengthen governance processes.
He further disclosed that the Registrar’s Office is reviewing its Strategic Plan to align it with the University's Corporate Strategic Plan, stressing the importance of staff participation in shaping the direction of the Office.
Mr. Owusu encouraged administrators to remain abreast of University statutes, regulations and governing instruments to ensure sound administrative decision-making and effective support for the University's academic and administrative functions.
As part of efforts to improve administrative efficiency across the University, he announced the development of a Heads of Department (HoD) Manual aimed at providing practical guidance and orientation for academic leaders.
“As registrars, it is supposed to be our tool. Some will come to you seeking leave of absence and other administrative guidance, so it is important that we are familiar with these processes,” he said.
The meeting forms part of a broader engagement strategy by the Registrar to strengthen communication and collaboration within the Registrar’s Offices. Similar meetings have been held with Deputy Registrars and Senior Assistant Registrars.
Participants took part in an interactive question-and-answer session and shared views on improving operational effectiveness within the University.
Mr. Owusu concluded by calling for unity, cooperation and teamwork among staff, noting that a collaborative working environment is essential for achieving the goals of the Registrar’s Office and supporting the University's development agenda.
