In an enriching display of academic partnership and cultural exchange, the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) School of Business (KSB) recently hosted a distinguished delegation from Southern University and A&M College, Baton Rouge, LA. This visit, held from May 22 to June 3, 2024, marks the third consecutive annual visit since the partnership's renewal in 2018, reaffirming a relationship that dates back to 1996.

The delegation, comprising thirty-three esteemed faculty members, students, and community partners, embarked on a journey that aimed to deepen collaborative efforts in various academic and community development arenas. The core focus of the partnership discussions included joint research initiatives, faculty development programs, exchange opportunities for students and faculty, curriculum sharing, and the development of small businesses.

Upon their arrival at the KNUST campus, the delegation was warmly received by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Rita Akosua Dickson. Prof. Dickson emphasized the importance of sustaining this partnership for the mutual benefit of both institutions. In a gesture of cultural appreciation, the Vice-Chancellor presented the guests with kente stoles personalized with their names, symbolizing the rich heritage and warm hospitality of Ghana.

The Southern University team was led by Dr. Donald R. Andrews, Dean, and Hon. Ms. Ann Smith, Chair of the Southern University System Board of Supervisors. Dr. Andrews expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor and the KSB management for their exceptional hospitality and dedication to the partnership. This sentiment was echoed by other leaders of the delegation, including Dr. Bijoy Sahoo (Executive Vice-Chancellor and Provost), Dr. Patrick Mensah (Vice President for Academic Affairs), Dr. Ashagre Yigletu (Associate Dean), and Mary Cobb-Marshall (Associate Director of Graduate Programs).

The delegation's visit was marked by a series of engaging academic sessions and cultural experiences. Southern University students participated in lectures at KSB and engaged in meaningful interactions with their KNUST counterparts, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas and perspectives.

The visitors explored several of Ghana's notable sites, including Dodi World at Akosombo where they enjoyed a serene cruise on the Volta Lake. They also visited the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum in Accra, the Manhyia Palace Museum to learn about Ashanti history and culture, the Assin Manso slave river, Kakum National Park, Elmina Castle, and the W.E.B. Dubois Memorial Centre for Pan African Culture. These excursions provided the delegation with a profound understanding of Ghana's rich cultural and historical landscape.

A highlight of the visit was the delegation's trip to Akrokyere, a rural community in the Kumawu District. The Chief and local residents warmly welcomed the guests, sharing fruits and other farm produce. The delegation visited the Akrokyere Basic School, where they interacted with the pupils. Dr. Oswald Dauvergne, moved by the school's challenges and the headteacher's dedication, donated a laptop to support the school's efforts. The delegation also committed to establishing a foundation to improve local amenities, demonstrating their commitment to making a tangible impact on the community.

In Accra, the delegation, along with KSB staff, attended a dinner hosted by the executives of Jospong Group of Companies at the luxurious AH Hotel. Although Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong, Chair of the group, was unable to attend, his executives presented the company's profile and discussed potential areas of collaboration with Southern University and KSB, exploring new avenues for partnership and development.

As the visit concluded, the delegation expressed immense satisfaction with their experiences and the profound impact of their interactions. They were seen off at Kotoka International Airport on June 3, 2024, by the Dean of KSB, Prof. Ahmed Agyapong, Mr. Festus Nyame (School Registrar), Prof. Kwame Owusu Kwarteng (Research Coordinator), and Mrs. Vivian Baffour Sarh (Secretary to the Dean).

This visit not only reinforced the longstanding partnership between KNUST and Southern University but also opened new doors for future collaborations, ensuring continued academic and cultural enrichment for both institutions.