Strengthening International Collaboration: CPUT Delegation Visits KNUST to Advance Academic Partnership
The Department of Communication Design (DeCoDE), Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), recently hosted a five-day academic visit by a delegation from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), South Africa, as part of a growing collaboration aimed at strengthening international partnerships, advancing academic exchange, and fostering joint research and educational initiatives.
The visiting delegation, comprising Ms. Amanda Morris and Mr. Zwelibanzi Damba, participated in a comprehensive programme of academic, cultural, and institutional engagements that reflected the shared commitment of both universities to excellence in teaching, research, innovation, and community engagement.
A major highlight of the visit was the delegates' interaction with Communication Design students through workshops, classroom engagements, and collaborative discussions. Drawing on their professional and academic expertise, Ms. Morris and Mr. Damba shared valuable perspectives on design education, creative practice, and professional development. Their presentations and interactive sessions encouraged students to think critically, broaden their global outlook, and explore new opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. Students greatly appreciated the opportunity to engage directly with international academics, ask questions, and gain insights into design practice and education in South Africa.
The delegation also participated in the celebrations marking KNUST's 75th Anniversary, an important milestone that showcased the University's rich legacy, achievements, and vision for the future. In addition, they attended an Inaugural Lecture, providing an opportunity to experience KNUST's vibrant research culture and its commitment to academic excellence.
To better understand Ghana's cultural and historical context, the delegates visited several important heritage sites, including the Manhyia Palace Museum, Bonwire, and the KNUST Museum. These visits provided valuable insights into indigenous knowledge systems, traditional craftsmanship, and the cultural heritage that continues to inspire contemporary design and innovation. The experience also highlighted the importance of integrating local knowledge into teaching, research, and design practice.
The programme further included visits to KNUST's entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem, where the delegation learned about the University's business development and incubation initiatives. These engagements provided opportunities to exchange ideas on entrepreneurship education, innovation ecosystems, and strategies for supporting students and researchers in transforming creative ideas into sustainable enterprises.
Another significant component of the visit was a meeting with the KNUST International Programmes Office (IPO). Discussions focused on strengthening institutional partnerships between KNUST and CPUT through collaborative research, staff and student mobility, academic exchanges, joint programmes, and other internationalisation initiatives. The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of both institutions to expanding opportunities for meaningful collaboration and knowledge exchange.
The delegation was hosted by the Department of Communication Design, led by Dr. Ralitsa Diana Debrah, together with Mr. Antony Kofi Badu, Prof. Edward Appiah, and supported by Mr. Michael Nii Martey Kodie. Their coordination ensured a productive and enriching programme that combined academic engagement, cultural immersion, and institutional collaboration.
Reflecting on the visit, both institutions expressed optimism about the future of the partnership and identified several opportunities for continued collaboration in design education, research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and international academic exchange. The visit marks another important step in strengthening the relationship between KNUST and CPUT while reinforcing their shared commitment to preparing globally minded graduates and addressing societal challenges through collaborative scholarship and creative practice.
Special Acknowledgements
The Department of Communication Design (DeCoDE), Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), extends its sincere appreciation to Dr. Ginn Assibey Bonsu, Prof. Eric Francis Eshun, Dr. Ismaila Moro, Mr. Benjamin Prempeh, and Prof. Ebenezer Kofi Howard (Vice Dean, Faculty of Art and Design) for their invaluable leadership, guidance, and support in facilitating meaningful academic interactions and dialogue throughout the visit. Their commitment played a significant role in strengthening the partnership between KNUST and the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) and in creating opportunities for future collaboration in teaching, research, staff and student mobility, and institutional engagement.
The Department also expresses its sincere gratitude to the KNUST International Programmes Office (IPO) for its continued support in promoting international collaboration and strengthening institutional partnerships. Appreciation is equally extended to the College of Art and Built Environment (CABE) Corporate Affairs Office for its assistance in coordinating communications and supporting the successful hosting of the visiting delegation.
Finally, the Department acknowledges all faculty members, staff, students, and partner offices whose dedication, hospitality, and collective efforts contributed to the success of the visit and further reinforced the growing collaboration between KNUST and CPUT.
Compiled by:
Dr. Ralitsa Diana Debrah
Department of Communication Design (DeCoDE), KNUST
