Buck Press Limited funds renovation of KNUST Publishing Studies Department facilities

The Publishing Studies Department of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has undergone a major infrastructure upgrade after Buck Press Limited financed the refurbishment of its teaching and learning facilities.

The renovation covers lecture halls, offices, furniture, lighting systems, and air-conditioning facilities to create a more conducive teaching and learning environment for students and lecturers.

The department's faculty and students have endured years of discomfort in the old facilities.

Head of the Department, Dr. Francis Nunu, says the renovation will significantly improve the academic environment and enhance students' learning experience.

"The renovation is expected to improve the conditions under which our students learn, and lecturers teach, creating a more conducive environment for academic work,” he said.

Executive Director of Buck Press Limited, Dr. Francis Nyanin, says the project was driven by the need to transform ageing wooden structures into modern, functional and inspiring spaces that promote academic excellence.

He says the initiative is also aimed at strengthening the longstanding relationship between Buck Press and KNUST through partnership, knowledge sharing and the development of Ghana's publishing industry.

"Our vision was to replace the ageing wooden structures with modern and functional spaces that inspire learning, creativity and academic excellence,” he noted.

Vice-Chancellor of KNUST, Professor Christian Agyare, urged the department to maintain the renovated facilities to ensure they serve their intended purpose for the years ahead.

He also encouraged industry players to partner with the university, stressing that collaboration between academia and industry is essential for national development.

"We must ensure that these facilities are properly maintained for the benefit of future generations. We also encourage industry players to work closely with the university for mutual benefits and national development,” he noted.

Some students say the previous state of infrastructure affected teaching and learning, particularly due to faulty electrical sockets and inadequate ventilation.

Departmental President of the student body, Asori Ayireka, says poor ventilation and excessive heat in the lecture rooms made academic activities uncomfortable and discouraged students from spending time in the department.

He is confident and optimistic that the modern facilities would enhance their learning experience.

"We were facing challenges with the infrastructure, especially inadequate ventilation and excessive heat in the lecture rooms. The condition made it uncomfortable for students to stay and learn in the department,” he said.