The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Project Management Institute (PMI) - Ghana Chapter. The signing ceremony was held on 14th June 2024 at the Council Chamber of the University.
The partnership entails mutual assistance in the establishment of new programmes in the area of Project Management, joint research projects, exchange of information and publications, organisation of conferences and workshops in the area of project management, formation of PMI Student Club for both undergraduate and postgraduate students, joint advocacy on national issues regarding project management, professional membership drive among faculty members, sponsorship for best-graduating project management student.
Professor Daniel Yaw Addai Duah, Dean of the International Programmes Office (IPO), highlighted the popularity of the Department of Construction Technology and Management's programmes. He noted that the Department and its programmes of study have garnered significant attention and attracts many diverse students. He, therefore, stressed the importance of involving professional bodies in regulating such programmes to ensure their quality and relevance.
The President of PMI-Ghana Chapter, Mr. Frank Owusu-Asamoah highlighted the importance of collaboration among stakeholders, noting that discussions have been ongoing for some time. He cited research by a global body conducted in 2020, which revealed that for every billion-dollar project, $101 million is wasted due to non-professionals being in charge. However, Mr. Asare believes that Ghana can reverse this trend by leveraging the knowledge of professionals. He, therefore, advocated for collaboration between academia and professionals, suggesting that such partnerships can generate the best ideas, implement effective strategies, and ultimately save money for the national coffers.
The Vice-Chancellor of KNUST, Professor (Mrs.) Rita Akosua Dickson, expressed her gratitude to the PMI team. She noted KNUST's commitment to producing globally competitive professionals, not just for Ghana but for the international stage. Professor (Mrs.) Akosua Dickson stated, "We are pleased to have you join us on this journey. Our goal is to bridge the gap between academia and industry, and we are always thinking about how to train professionals who can excel anywhere in the world."
She highlighted the importance of partnerships with industry professionals, acknowledging that such collaborations are crucial for achieving this objective. "We are proud to work with partners who share our vision and can help us enhance the quality of life through our collective efforts," she added. Professor (Mrs.) Akosua Dickson assured the PMI team of KNUST's readiness and expertise to work together towards these goals and expressed her optimism for future other collaborations.
The MoU is valid for five (5) years and renewable for a further five (5) years.
