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Do you know what it takes to be president? - KNUST SRC president chides critics

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  Published in Science and Technology on Sunday, August 31st 2025 at 17:02 GMT by Ghanaweb.com
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Do You Know What It Takes to Be President? KNUST SRC President Takes a Stand Against Critics

Kumasi, Ghana — In a candid interview published by GhanaWeb on September 21, 2024, the current Student Representative Council (SRC) President of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Alfred Kwame Osei, publicly rebuked a wave of criticism that had been circulating among the student body, alumni, and campus commentators. In a moment that could be described as both defiant and reflective, Osei posed the rhetorical question, “Do you know what it takes to be president?” and proceeded to outline the complexities and responsibilities that accompany the role of leading one of the country’s most vibrant academic communities.

A Context of Unrest

The criticism that prompted the interview began in late August, when a series of student-led protests—citing grievances over dormitory overcrowding, inadequate cafeteria services, and concerns over the SRC’s financial transparency—began to spread across KNUST’s four main campuses. The protest banners, which were shared on social media and displayed in front of the SRC headquarters, called for “greater accountability” and demanded an “audit of SRC funds.” A number of former SRC members and faculty advisers expressed similar worries, arguing that the current administration had not lived up to the promises made in its election campaign.

Osei’s response came at a time when the university’s administration, led by Vice‑Chancellor Professor Kwabena Owusu‑Asare, had already announced a series of reforms, including a new student welfare fund and an overhaul of the campus food services system. Yet the flurry of criticism suggested that students were not satisfied with the pace or scope of change.

The Weight of a Presidency

In his interview, Osei described the role of an SRC President as “a blend of leadership, diplomacy, and public service.” He went on to highlight the parallels between the student presidency and the national office, drawing on the example of Ghana’s President, Nana Akufo‑Addo, who had once remarked on the need for leaders to “listen before they speak.” Osei echoed this sentiment: “In the same way a nation’s president must gauge the will of the people before making decisions, we must first listen to the voices of the students—whether they are from the dorms, the lecture halls, or the sports fields.”

He emphasized that the SRC’s responsibilities extend beyond mere representation. “We are custodians of the university’s resources, stewards of its culture, and advocates for every student’s right to a quality education.” Osei underscored that these duties require “rigorous planning, transparent budgeting, and an unwavering commitment to justice.”

Responding to the Critics

Osei’s rebuttal to the critics was measured, but it was also unequivocal. He acknowledged that the SRC’s “imperfections are not hidden,” but he argued that criticism should be constructive rather than destructive. “The students and alumni are right to hold us accountable,” he said. “But we must ensure that this accountability is grounded in facts, not in misinformation or emotional reaction.”

He also cited the ongoing audit of SRC finances that was scheduled to commence in early October. “Transparency begins with disclosure,” Osei stated. “By inviting external auditors to examine our accounts, we demonstrate that we have nothing to hide.”

A Vision for the Future

Beyond the immediate debate, Osei articulated a broader vision for KNUST. He outlined three priority areas: (1) Improving Student Accommodation – including a plan to remodel dormitories, increase bed capacity, and implement a student feedback system; (2) Enhancing Campus Health Services – a proposal to expand the on‑campus clinic and to introduce a health education initiative for students; and (3) Boosting Academic Support – a partnership with faculty to create peer‑learning groups and tutoring programs for under‑performing students.

He also highlighted plans for a new “Student Voice” portal, where students can anonymously submit concerns and suggestions. “By creating a digital channel for dialogue, we can respond promptly to emerging issues and involve students in decision‑making,” Osei explained.

A Call for Unity

The interview concluded with a message of unity and resilience. Osei urged students, faculty, and alumni to view the SRC as an ally rather than an adversary. “We all share the same goal: to make KNUST a world‑class institution,” he declared. “When we confront problems together, we create solutions that last.”

The article, which also referenced the official KNUST SRC website for further information on SRC initiatives and the university’s policy on student governance, was well‑received by many students who appreciated the candidness of Osei’s remarks. Others, however, remained skeptical, pointing to past SRC controversies and the perceived delay in implementing promised reforms.

Looking Ahead

As KNUST prepares for the fall semester, the debate over the SRC’s effectiveness continues to shape campus discourse. The upcoming audit of SRC finances and the launch of the Student Voice portal will serve as litmus tests for the administration’s commitment to transparency and responsiveness. Whether the SRC can rise above criticism and deliver on its pledges will ultimately determine the future trajectory of student governance at one of Ghana’s premier universities.

For more information on KNUST’s student affairs and the SRC’s current projects, readers can visit the university’s official website and the dedicated SRC page, which provide details on upcoming meetings, budget reports, and ways to get involved in student-led initiatives.