Inside the Vision of KNUST SRC President: Leadership, Legacy, and Lasting Impact
At a town hall meeting filled with student leaders and media houses, the KNUST SRC President, Kane Nana Francis, delivered a comprehensive and heartfelt address on the direction of the 64th administration. From pressing security concerns to innovative student support systems, his speech outlined a bold and practical roadmap focused on inclusion, safety, empowerment, and community impact.
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| KNUST SRC President - Kane Nana Francis Speaking at a gathering |
Prioritizing Student Security
The President began by tackling the issue on every student’s mind: security. He acknowledged that concerns around safety are legitimate and stated unequivocally that the SRC is not waiting for another tragedy before acting. Plans are underway to procure motorbikes and enhance campus patrols, while a full-fledged safety campaign is set to launch. This campaign will include student sensitization on safe movement, campus hotspots, and how to report incidents quickly.
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| Ghana Police Patrol Motors on Campus |
In addressing infrastructure for safety, he proudly declared that streetlights have now been installed in all major routes across the six student constituencies. This, he said, was done in collaboration with the Vice Chancellor and the Directorate of Student Affairs. Students are encouraged to challenge the claim if they find any remaining dark spots.
Building for the Future: A Legacy Project
Kane Nana Francis introduced what he described as his legacy project—a modern, solar-powered study and relaxation center located near the SRC Hostel. Designed to accommodate over 200 students, the facility will come equipped with Wi-Fi, air-conditioned spaces, and a snack bar. He emphasized that this is more than just a study area; it’s a safe, student-centered environment that promotes both academic focus and wellness.
The project is currently on tender, with construction expected to begin soon. It aims to address the limited study space in the existing SRC Secretariat, which often becomes overcrowded.
Empowering Entrepreneurs through the Skills Clinic
The SRC is also taking bold steps in student empowerment. The newly launched Skills Clinic targets over 50 students across disciplines and skill levels. The initiative seeks to support students with talents in AI, app development, agribusiness, hairdressing, photography, fashion, and more.
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| KNUST Skills Clinic Launch |
In addition, a dedicated Entrepreneurship Fund worth over GHS 400,000 will support 25 to 30 student-led startups. Successful applicants could receive up to GHS 30,000 each to turn their refined ideas into scalable businesses. The President emphasized that this support aims to build a student economy where graduates do not just seek employment but create it.
Restoring the Spirit of Celebration: Student Week is Back
After years of restrictions following hall clashes, the SRC has succeeded in restoring the long-anticipated SRC Week, now rebranded as the Student Week Celebration. Scheduled from July 14 to 21, the week will feature a dynamic mix of educational seminars, health screenings, debates, games, cultural displays, and concerts.
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| Crowd at the Vodafone TurnUp - KNUST |
The President addressed rumors about event restrictions, noting that while authorities have proposed a 5:00 p.m. cut-off time for activities, his administration is negotiating for more flexibility. He hinted at appearances by top artists like Black Sherif, R2Bees, and Shatta Wale, while also pledging performance slots for KNUST’s promising talents.
Justice for Joana and Ongoing Safety Concerns
Responding to criticism about the unresolved Joana murder case, the SRC President explained that the matter is now being handled at the national level and is out of the university’s control. However, he assured students that the SRC continues to follow up and remains hopeful that justice will be served.
KNUST mourns the demise of Miss Joana Deladem Yabani, a fourth-year Biological Science student whose lifeless body was found close to the Centre for Disability and Rehabilitation Studies (CEDRES) on Thursday morning.
— KNUST NEWS FILE (@knustnewsfile) February 27, 2025
Investigations are currently ongoing. #KNUSTNewsFile pic.twitter.com/zUgY1J91lR
Welfare Beyond the Main Campus
Welfare initiatives under the current administration extend beyond the main campus. The SRC has made food donations worth GHS 15,000 to the Obuasi campus. Additionally, a GHS 50,000 investment has been made into the KNUST Food Bank, supplying food essentials like rice, gari, and Milo to needy students.
Community Health and Outreach
One of the most touching stories shared involved the SRC’s outreach to children in surrounding communities. An eye screening program at Ayeduase R/C and Bomso M/A schools screened over 800 children, with more than 170 set to receive free spectacles. The President explained this was inspired by a chance encounter with a visually impaired child, underscoring the importance of leadership that looks beyond campus walls.
Bridging Gaps: Literally
One of the most tangible infrastructure projects completed under his leadership is the reconstruction of a bridge between the Frontline and White House hostel. During his campaign days, he personally funded a temporary GHS 7,500 wooden structure to solve the immediate problem. Today, that effort has evolved into a fully constructed concrete bridge, achieved in partnership with school authorities and the MCE.
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| The Constructed Bridge Between Frontline and White House |
A Realistic Approach to Student Life
In a bold and honest moment, the President addressed the distribution of over 3,000 condoms on Valentine’s Day. Rather than discouraging students from relationships, he stressed the importance of safe sex and personal responsibility. “You’re in the university and you’re over 18. Sex is not the issue—safety is,” he said.
Leadership Philosophy and Closing Message
Throughout the address, one theme remained consistent: the desire to leave behind something tangible, not just rhetoric. “I’m not the Messiah, and I won’t promise heaven. But I will leave something behind,” he said. He acknowledged past SRC leaders who paved the way and emphasized that progress only happens through unity.
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| KNUST Media Houses Reps |
As the semester continues and projects unfold, students will be watching to see how these promises translate into action. But one thing is clear—this administration is not afraid to act, to speak, or to be held accountable.
And as Kane Nana Francis put it: “This work isn’t for me alone—it’s for all of us. Done with you, by you, and for you.”
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