KNUST scholar Professor Brenya takes helm as KsTU council chair

  knust-scholar-professor-brenya-takes-helm-as-kstu-council-chair.html
  Science and Technology on Thu, Oct 30th, 2025 by Ghanaweb.com

Professor Dr. Kwadwo A. Brenya Leads Kumasi Technical University’s Governing Council

On 5 November 2023, GhanaWeb reported that Professor Dr. Kwadwo A. Brenya, a distinguished scholar of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), has been appointed as the chairperson of the Governing Council of Kumasi Technical University (KSTU). The appointment marks a significant milestone for KSTU, the newest technical university in Ghana, as it seeks to cement its position as a premier institution for applied sciences and technology education.

A Scholar with a Strong Academic Legacy

Professor Brenya’s academic journey began at KNUST where he earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Civil Engineering. He pursued doctoral studies at the University of Illinois at Urbana‑Champaign, completing a dissertation on sustainable water resource management. Upon returning to Ghana, he joined the faculty of KNUST’s Department of Environmental Engineering, where he has taught for over two decades. His research portfolio includes more than 60 peer‑reviewed publications and several collaborative projects with international partners focused on water quality, environmental remediation, and sustainable infrastructure.

In addition to his scholarly work, Brenya has held numerous leadership roles within KNUST. He served as the Head of the Department of Environmental Engineering from 2014 to 2018 and later as the Director of the Centre for Sustainable Development, overseeing research that aligns with Ghana’s national development agenda. His commitment to excellence was recognized in 2021 when KNUST awarded him the “Research Excellence Award” for his contributions to environmental science.

KSTU’s Vision and Governance Structure

Kumasi Technical University was established in 2021 as part of Ghana’s higher‑education reforms to strengthen technical and vocational training. According to its official website, KSTU’s mission is “to provide world‑class technical education, foster research and innovation, and develop competent professionals who will contribute to national development.” The university’s governing structure includes a Council that serves as the apex body for strategic oversight, policy formulation, and quality assurance.

Professor Brenya’s appointment as Council chair is expected to bring a blend of academic rigor and practical experience to the board. In an interview with GhanaWeb, Brenya expressed enthusiasm about the role: “I am honoured to lead the Council of a university that shares KNUST’s commitment to excellence. My focus will be on fostering research that addresses Ghana’s developmental challenges and ensuring that KSTU’s programs remain relevant and impactful.”

KSTU’s Vice‑Chancellor, Professor Ama Owusu‑Anane, welcomed Brenya’s appointment: “Professor Brenya’s track record in research and administration makes him an ideal leader for our Council. His vision aligns with KSTU’s goal of becoming a leading technical university in Africa.”

Linking Back to KNUST and Ghana’s Higher‑Education Landscape

Professor Brenya’s transition from KNUST to KSTU highlights the fluidity and interconnectedness of Ghana’s higher‑education ecosystem. KNUST’s official site showcases its diverse faculties—including Engineering, Science, and Business—and its commitment to producing graduates who are ready for the global market. The university has long been a cradle for talent that feeds into Ghana’s burgeoning technology sector.

KSTU, meanwhile, builds upon this legacy by positioning itself as a specialized institution focused on engineering, applied sciences, and technology. Its governance model, anchored by a Council chaired by a seasoned academic, reflects a deliberate strategy to embed high standards of accountability and excellence from the outset.

Implications for Students and Researchers

With Brenya at the helm, KSTU is poised to accelerate its research agenda. The university has already announced plans to establish new laboratories for renewable energy technologies and a partnership with the Ghana Energy Commission to pilot smart grid solutions. Students are expected to benefit from enhanced research opportunities, industry collaborations, and exposure to cutting‑edge technologies.

In conclusion, Professor Dr. Kwadwo A. Brenya’s appointment as chair of KSTU’s Governing Council represents a convergence of academic excellence and strategic vision. His leadership will shape the university’s trajectory as it seeks to nurture a new generation of engineers and technologists capable of driving Ghana’s economic and social development.