Communication Design holds Orientation for Freshers, 2026

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The Department of Communication Design under the Faculty of Art, KNUST organized a Freshers’ Orientation Program on Monday January 12, 2026. The event, held at the New Block of the Faculty of Social Sciences, brought together newly admitted students of the B.A. Communication Design programme, departmental teaching and non-teaching staff, student leaders, and senior members of the faculty. The programme was moderated by Dr. Benjamin Prempeh, lecturer and head of the Multimedia Section. Over 250 freshers were in attendance, keen to receive valuable guidance and insights from the members of the faculty.

The Head of Department, Mr. Anthony Kofi Badu, warmly welcomed the newly admitted students and introduced the members of staff present. Among them were Prof. Eric Francis Eshun, Dr. Adam Rahman, Dr. George Kushiator, Dr. John Opuni Amankwaa, Mr. Kwabena Kusi-Appouh, Dr. Bertha Ayim and Mr. Derrick Bediako. He provided a brief history of the department, from its evolution to its current status as Communication Design. He noted that the department has become one of the most sought-after programmes at the University over the years.

Mr. Badu further outlined the aim and structure of the degree programme, explaining that the first year serves as a foundation year designed to equip students with broad knowledge and skills before they specialize in subsequent years. He emphasized the competitive nature of the programme and encouraged students to remain dedicated and disciplined in their studies. He assured students of the department’s commitment to providing professional support to help them achieve their academic and career goals and urged them to take advantage of the opportunity that the programme offers them.
In addition, Mr. Badu highlighted the diverse career opportunities available to graduates of the programme, spanning sectors such as agribusiness, health, mining, insurance, finance, radio and television, and academia. He noted that the department has a strong track record of placing students in these fields through national service, internships, industrial attachments, and employment opportunities. He also explained that the programme structure allows students to participate in internship programmes that provide practical industrial training and enhance future employment prospects. He concluded by stating that their admission into the programme is an opportunity given to them that many seek after so they should make good use of it.

The Vice Dean of the faculty, Prof. Ebenezer Howard, welcomed the students and highlighted the prestige of the Communication Design program (formerly Graphic Design). He shared a personal reflection on the program's competitive nature, noting that it remains a highly sought-after discipline that even he could not secure admission into during his time as a student. He urged the freshers to recognize the privilege of their admission and to approach their studies with the utmost seriousness, given the vast professional opportunities the field offers.

The Faculty Exams Officer, Mr. Albert Benjamin Essuman, addressed the students regarding the Student Guide which outlines the regulations governing student life on campus. He emphasized the guide's vital role in keeping students informed about university policies and academic requirements, and urged students to access a copy for themselves. Mr. Essuman cautioned students against relying on hearsay or second-hand information from peers, urging them instead to consult official sources. He encouraged the cohort to seek clarification whenever needed.

Dr. Ginn Bonsu Assibey, the Departmental Examinations Officer, outlined the essential requirements for maintaining studentship within the department. He emphasized that students must complete both online course registration and biometric registration every semester to remain in good standing. Dr. Assibey further detailed university policies regarding lecture attendance, registration deadlines, and examination procedures.  He explained how the weighted average for every student is calculated and admonished students to make it a point to attend all lectures. He concluded by advising students to rely on official final timetables, manage their time effectively, and proactively seek assistance from the department whenever necessary.

Dr. Bertha Ayim, a Senior Lecturer, addressed the gathering on the subject of campus lifestyle. She reminded students that academic excellence remains their primary objective. To illustrate the importance of perseverance, she shared the journey of a current Teaching Assistant who, despite facing periods of exhaustion and challenges, remained resilient. Dr. Ayim further cited examples of successful alumni who thrived due to their discipline, urging the new students to remain committed to their studies and maintain strict punctuality for all lectures. This was followed by a question-and-answer session which helped to elaborate on various issues students were facing.

The executives of the Art Society. the student’s association at the Faculty and the Graphic Arts Student Association (GASA) introduced themselves and offered words of encouragement to the freshmen. The faculty executives informed the students that the executive body is available to provide guidance and support regarding financial aid and scholarship opportunities for those in need. At the ceremony were some Alumni of the department who took the opportunity to share some words of encouragement and opportunities.

The Head of Department, Mr. Anthony Kofi Badu, delivered the concluding remarks, offering a final word of welcome and encouragement to the freshers. Following his address a volunteer to lead the closing prayer the ceremony came to a close. The students were thereafter given a tour of facilities that are integral to their stay on campus. Students were provided with some refreshments afterwards.

Story by:
Godwill Ankomah
Teaching Assistant, 2026