The School of Medical Sciences (SMS) at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has celebrated its 50th anniversary, highlighting five decades of significant contributions to medical education and healthcare delivery in Ghana.
Established in 1975 with an initial intake of 22 students, the school has since trained over 4,000 doctors and medical scientists who continue to play vital roles in Ghana’s healthcare system and beyond.
The milestone celebration, held under the theme “A Glance at the Past, a Glimpse into the Future,” underscored the school’s pioneering influence in community-oriented and problem-based medical education — a model that has shaped national health policy and practice.
As part of the event, the Minister of Education, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening medical education under President John Mahama’s “Reset Agenda.” He announced a GH¢46 million allocation for the completion of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) project and an additional $38 million proposal under the 2025/2026 GETFund formula to equip the facility.
The Minister also disclosed plans for the construction of two multipurpose lecture theatres for SMS at a cost of $10 million, emphasizing government’s commitment to expanding access to higher education and improving medical training infrastructure.
In her remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of KNUST, Professor (Mrs.) Rita Akosua Dickson, commended the school’s enduring contribution to the university’s mission of advancing knowledge in science and technology for sustainable development. She lauded the resilience of the institution and its impact on healthcare delivery, calling for continued government support.
The Mawerehene of Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Baffour Dr. Osei Hyeaman Brentuo VI, urged government to address the limited intake of medical students despite growing demand. He emphasized the need for innovative measures to expand access and strengthen Ghana’s medical education system.
The golden jubilee celebration marked not just a reflection on past achievements but also a renewed commitment to excellence and innovation in training the next generation of medical professionals.
