With the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology announcing a vacancy for the position of Vice-Chancellor, the institution’s first female Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Rita Akosua Dickson, is approaching the end of her tenure.
Her impending exit comes at a time when leadership performance, technocratic competence and women’s participation in high-level politics are increasingly shaping voter sentiment in Ghana. Within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) some political observers believe Prof. Dickson could emerge as a strategic asset as the party repositions itself ahead of the 2028 elections.
Speculation about her national political relevance is not new. In 2024, rumours circulated that she was being considered as a possible running mate to then presidential candidate Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. The prospect was welcomed by some analysts who argued that her technocratic background and calm authority could have broadened the ticket’s appeal at a time of economic strain and declining public confidence.
Others suggested that pairing her against the opposition’s vice-presidential candidate, Prof. Jane Naana Opoku‑Agyemang, would have produced a contest between two accomplished academics, potentially reshaping the tone and substance of the campaign. That option did not materialise. Instead, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh was selected as running mate, a decision that political commentators say failed to consolidate gains and, at times, introduced avoidable distractions.
With the NPP now reassessing leadership options, some party watchers argue that the flagbearer, Dr. Bawumia no longer constrained by internal compromise, may seek a running mate with a demonstrable governance record and broad public trust, criteria they believe Prof. Dickson meets.
Leadership shaped by execution
Colleagues often describe Prof. Dickson as disarmingly humorous and approachable, but firmly results-driven. Her leadership style is defined by decisiveness, attention to detail and a willingness to delegate authority based on competence. Insiders say she rarely hesitates to make difficult administrative decisions when outcomes are at stake.
Digitisation, visibility and student-centred reform
One of the most visible legacies of Prof. Dickson’s tenure is KNUST’s accelerated digitisation drive. The One Student, One Laptop (SONSOL) initiative, introduced as part of the university’s digital transformation agenda, has supported thousands of financially disadvantaged students with laptops, expanding access to online learning and academic resources.
Her administration also strengthened digital teaching infrastructure through the establishment of the E-Learning Centre, which has become central to online instruction, assessments and academic continuity.
Beyond internal systems, Prof. Dickson’s tenure marked a turning point in KNUST’s digital visibility and public engagement. The university in recent times strengthened its central website and coordinated digital publishing across colleges, directorates and research centres, significantly increasing the volume, frequency and coherence of institutional content.
KNUST’s social media presence has expanded sharply during this period, shifting from largely episodic announcements to continuous, multimedia storytelling around research, student life, partnerships and institutional milestones.
Structural reforms and research expansion
Rising student numbers placed growing pressure on academic and welfare systems. In response, Prof. Dickson elevated the Office of Student Affairs to a directorate, expanding its scope and capacity, while the School of Graduate Studies underwent a similar elevation to address the needs of a rapidly growing postgraduate population.
Her administration also increased allocations to the KNUST Research Fund (KReF) and introduced dedicated grants managers across colleges, strengthening proposal development and research coordination. These measures contributed to a surge in publications and improved global rankings, consolidating KNUST’s standing as one of West Africa’s leading research institutions.
Additional offices established during her tenure include The Gender and inclusive Office and KNUST wellness Centre broadening institutional support for staff, students and retirees.
Beyond academia
Despite a turbulent second term marked by legal challenges, Prof. Dickson’s administration maintained operational stability. Supporters argue that her ability to govern under pressure mirrors the demands of national political leadership.
As Ghana’s political parties look toward 2028, some within the NPP believe Prof. Dickson’s blend of technocratic competence, communication skill and administrative execution could translate beyond academia. Known for her oft-repeated mantra, “one thing at a time”, many argue that as her chapter at KNUST closes, another may be opening.
Whether that journey leads to frontline politics remains uncertain. But for a party seeking credibility, renewal and broader appeal, Prof. Rita Akosua Dickson is increasingly being mentioned as an experiment worth considering.
Tsa Alagba is a political and historical commentator
Contact me on alagbatsa@yahoo.com
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
Source: www.myjoyonline.com
