Use your digital platforms to build KNUST’s reputation – KNUST URO to bloggers

The University Relations Officer of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Dr. Daniel Norris Bekoe, has called on students and bloggers alike to become responsible digital ambassadors by using their social media platforms and other communication channels to project the university positively and contribute to strengthening its global reputation.

According to him, every student is a representative of KNUST, and the manner in which they communicate online has a direct impact on the image, credibility and visibility of the university.

Dr. Bekoe made the call while delivering a presentation at the 2026 PR Summit organised by the Students’ Representative Council (SRC) on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the Faculty of Law Auditorium, KNUST.

Speaking on the theme, “Communicating for Impact in the Digital Age: Strategies for Student Success, Leadership and Professional Excellence,” he urged students to move beyond using digital platforms merely for entertainment and instead leverage them to tell the success stories of KNUST, showcase innovation and research, celebrate student achievements and promote the values that make the university one of Africa’s leading institutions.

“As students of KNUST, you are among the institution’s most influential ambassadors. Every post, comment, photograph and video you share contributes to shaping public perception about the university. Let your platforms tell positive stories about KNUST and reflect the excellence for which the university is known,” he said.

Dr. Bekoe noted that communication has become one of the most valuable competencies in the digital age due to the rapid advancement of social media, digital technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI).

“Communication is no longer simply about sending information. Its real impact lies in influencing attitudes, building trust, inspiring action and creating positive change. In today’s digital world, influence is measured not by the number of followers you have, but by the value and credibility of the messages you share,” he stressed.

He observed that while digital platforms have created unprecedented opportunities for students to reach global audiences, they have also fuelled the spread of misinformation, disinformation and negative content.

He therefore urged students to verify information before sharing it, rely on credible sources and avoid sensationalism that could undermine both their personal credibility and that of the university.

“In this era of instant communication, your credibility is your greatest asset. Think before you post. Verify before you share. Your digital footprint will remain long after the moment has passed,” he advised.

The University Relations Officer further encouraged students to deliberately build professional personal brands by maintaining responsible social media profiles, sharing meaningful content, showcasing academic and extracurricular achievements and engaging respectfully with others online.

“Your digital reputation has become your twenty-first-century curriculum vitae. Employers, scholarship providers and institutions increasingly examine online profiles before making important decisions. Let your online presence open doors rather than close them,” he remarked.

Dr. Bekoe also highlighted the indispensable role communication plays in academic success, leadership, entrepreneurship and career development.

“Leaders communicate vision. Entrepreneurs communicate value. Professionals communicate competence. Students who develop strong communication skills position themselves for greater opportunities in every sphere of life,” he stated.

Touching on the increasing use of Artificial Intelligence, he acknowledged its enormous potential to support learning, research, content creation and data analysis but cautioned students against overdependence on technology.

“AI is a powerful tool, but it cannot replace human creativity, empathy, ethical judgement and critical thinking. These remain the qualities that distinguish exceptional communicators and leaders,” he said.

He further reminded students that ethical communication remains the cornerstone of trust, urging them to uphold honesty, integrity, transparency and accountability while rejecting plagiarism, cyberbullying, hate speech and all forms of irresponsible online behaviour.

Dr. Bekoe encouraged participants to read extensively, practise public speaking, develop digital content creation skills, embrace lifelong learning and continuously improve their communication abilities.

He concluded by reiterating that communication is a lifelong asset that shapes leadership, employability and societal development, urging students to intentionally use their voices and digital platforms to build both their personal brands and the reputation of KNUST.

“When we all become intentional about communicating responsibly and positively, we strengthen not only our own futures but also the image and legacy of KNUST. Let us use our voices to inspire, educate and proudly tell the KNUST story to the world,” he said.

Source: Purefmonlinegh.com || Evans Osei-Bonsu || 2026