The Alumni Association of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi has launched the KNUST Anniversary Gardens at Mamfe. The launch was followed by a tree planting exercise on a 7-acre land, donated by the Chief of Mamfe. They planted varied species of trees that will result in the establishment of an arboretum.
In his welcome address, Mr. Herman Yobo Addae speaking on behalf of the Global President of the Association, expressed gratitude to the Chief of Mamfe for buying into the proposal of the Association and broadening the scope of operation. He added that the Anniversary Garden on completion shall have features such as picnic lawns, hiking trails, scenic rest stations and reception centres.
The Vice-Chancellor of KNUST, Professor (Mrs.) Rita Akosua Dickson, in her address reminded the public on the key role that forests play in the sustenance of human and animal life. She also underscored the importance of forests for research work. She, therefore, called on all to be conscious of the environment and take steps to protect same.
Launching the project, the Chief of Mamfe and Kyidomhene of the Akuapem Traditional Area, Osaberima Ansah Sasraku III, expressed his gratitude to KNUST Alumni Association for conceiving the idea and opting to execute it at Mamfe. He pledged to convince other chiefs in the traditional area to replicate this in their jurisdictions, as it is crucial for the sustenance of human existence on earth.
Officials of the Forest Services Commission led members of the Association, some students of Methodist Girls High School, Junior High School students and residents of Mamfe to plant the tree species.
Also present at the programme were Mr. Andrews Kwasi Boateng, Registrar of KNUST, Nana Obeng Kumi II, Amankrado of Mamfe, Dr. Kwaku Agbesi, Global President of the KNUST Alumni Association, Ms. Eunice Akosua Amoako, Immediate Past Global President of the KNUST Alumni Association, Prof. Boateng Kyereh, Dr. Benard Kofi Turkson, Technical Advisors to the Project, Mrs. Priscilla Asomaning, District Manager of the Forest Services Commission and Mr. James Kwasi Oberko of the Advancement and Alumni Relations Office, KNUST.