KNUST, Norwegian consulting firm explore partnership on student exchange, research

The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has initiated discussions with the Norwegian African Relations Consult (NARC) to establish a strategic partnership aimed at promoting international academic exchange and collaborative research between Ghana and Norway.

The development follows a consultative meeting on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, between KNUST Vice-Chancellor, Professor Christian Agyare, and a delegation from NARC led by its Chief Executive Officer, Joseph Kyei-Boateng.

Speaking at the meeting, Mr Kyei-Boateng, a KNUST alumnus and former media practitioner, said NARC was established to bridge academic and development gaps between countries in the Global South and developed nations in the Global North.

“Norway and Ghana are bigger, so we have to start somewhere, and this is why we are narrowing the partnership through KNUST and potential universities in Norway,” he said.

“As the adage goes, charity begins at home; as an alumnus, it is like coming back to my former university to initiate this cooperation,” he added.

He said the proposed partnership would focus on student and staff exchanges, joint scientific research and capacity-building initiatives aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in quality education, health, innovation and sustainable technology.

Mr Kyei-Boateng, formerly of the Graphic Communications Group, said funding for the initiative was expected to come from the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD), under Norway’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, following the submission of joint proposals.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Christian Agyare, welcomed the initiative, saying it aligned with KNUST’s strategic plan, Plan 2K35, which focuses on mutually beneficial partnerships and seeks to move the university “from excellence to eminence” through global impact.

“We are happy to have this arranged. Our key interest is in student and staff exchanges, as well as joint research collaborations,” he said.

He added that the proposed framework’s inclusion of all categories of staff would provide opportunities for exposure and motivation across the university to advance its strategic vision.

Highlighting areas where Ghana could benefit from Norway’s experience, Professor Agyare identified natural resource management, sustainable oil production and technology transfer as potential areas for collaboration.

He, however, requested that NARC submit a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for review by KNUST’s Legal Office and International Programmes Office (IPO) to formally initiate the proposed partnership.

According to him, the MoU would establish clear targets, timelines and responsibilities, paving the way for joint project proposals and student internship placements.

He commended Mr Kyei-Boateng for seeking to give back to his alma mater.