Search intensifies for new KNUST VC as Prof Rita Dickson prepares to exit

The search for a new leader at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) is officially underway. The university has begun the process to identify a successor for Professor Rita Akosua Dickson, whose distinguished two-term tenure as the institution's first female Vice-Chancellor concludes in July 2026.

Application and Selection Process

In anticipation of the transition, the KNUST Council opened advertisements for the position in February. Prospective candidates have until the end of March 2026 to submit their credentials and vision statements for review.

Following the deadline, the Council will oversee a rigorous assessment process, including shortlisting and formal interviews, to determine who will lead Ghana’s premier science and technology university.

Potential Successors

Insiders suggest the race is already heating up. Approximately nine individuals are rumored to have expressed interest or formally submitted applications. Notable names mentioned in academic circles include:

Professor Christian Agyare – Provost of the College of Health Sciences

Professor Rexford Assasie-Oppong – Senior-most Professor of Architecture

Professor Poku Boansi – Director of the School of Graduate Studies

Professor Charles Ofosu Marfo – Former President of UTAG and renowned academic

Other prominent figures linked to the role include Prof. Marian Asantewaa Nkansah (Director of Student Affairs), Prof. Edward Brenyah (Political Scientist), Prof. Kwabena Biritwum, Prof. Abavare, and Prof. Jerry John Kponyo.

While the University Council remains the ultimate deciding body, three candidates are currently tipped as the top contenders: Professor Rexford Assasie-Oppong, Professor Christian Agyare, and Professor Poku Boansi.

Supporters of Professor Assasie-Oppong point to his extensive service on the KNUST Governing Council, highlighting his deep understanding of university statutes and “moral stability” as reasons why he is a natural fit for the role.

All three frontrunners are credited with the administrative experience necessary to elevate the KNUST brand across the African continent.

The coming months will be pivotal as the search committee narrows down the list to find the visionary leader capable of following in Professor Dickson’s historic footsteps.