KEEP International Scientific Advisory Board Chairman Charts Path for Project Sustainability and Broader Impact

The KNUST Engineering Education Project (KEEP) had the Chairman of its International Scientific Advisory Board (ISAB), Prof. Johnson Asumadu, pay a working visit to the project and college leadership. The meeting focused on ensuring the longevity of KEEP’s impact and expanding its governance framework.

Prof. Jerry John Kponyo, KEEP Project Lead, welcomed Prof. Asumadu and highlighted his dedication to the project, noting that he prioritizes visits to KEEP whenever he travels to Ghana from the USA. Prof. Kwabena Biritwum Nyarko, Provost of the College of Engineering, also welcomed the Chairman, thanking him for his invaluable guidance.

A key highlight of the discussion was the future structure of KEEP’s advisory board. Prof. Asumadu posed critical questions regarding the project’s objectives and outcomes, proposing that an advisory board structure should not only serve KEEP but be replicated at departmental and college levels to ensure widespread impact. In response, Prof. Kponyo suggested integrating industry experts into the existing boards. Prof. Asumadu further recommended including a government representative to enhance policy alignment.

Beyond governance, the discussion explored sustainable funding mechanisms. Prof. Asumadu sought clarity on the processes for sending funds to the College of Engineering Endowment Fund and suggested that the university adopt a unified system for all incoming financial contributions to create a more robust investment policy. Additionally, he advised on the creation of a central scholarship office to efficiently manage student support.

In a personal commitment to the project’s mission, Prof. Asumadu revealed his plans to undertake his sabbatical leave within the College, working directly with Prof. E.A. Frimpong, the Dean of the Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering on a collaborative research project to be funded by the National Science Foundation. He also shared forward-thinking fundraising strategies, such as the creation of  "Day of Giving" for the College, partnering with financial institutions for co-branded credit cards, and continuing alumni recognition programs to ensure sustained support for the College and its initiatives like KEEP.