Koforidua Technical University (KTU) has formalized a strategic partnership with the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) in South Africa through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at fostering academic collaboration, staff and student exchange, and joint research initiatives.

The official signing ceremony was held on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at the Abba Bentil Andam Theatre, KTU.

The event brought together key officials from both institutions. Representing KTU were Prof. John Owusu (Vice-Chancellor), Prof. Richard Ohene Asiedu (Pro Vice-Chancellor), Mrs. Evelyn Fafa Adom (Registrar), and Dr. Frank Agyen Dwomoh (Director, International Programmes and Institutional Linkages). Also present were Deans, Directors, and Heads of Departments from various faculties.

The VUT delegation was led by Dr. Simphiwe Speech Nelana, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, Commercialisation, and Internationalisation.

In his address, Prof. John Owusu described the collaboration as a significant milestone in KTU’s internationalisation drive. He expressed optimism that the partnership would advance transformative educational initiatives and strengthen the role of higher education in promoting sustainable development across Africa. He further revealed that a joint working committee has been established to ensure the effective implementation of the agreed areas of cooperation.

Dr. Simphiwe Speech Nelana, in his remarks, lauded KTU for its warm hospitality and visionary approach to education. He emphasised that the partnership between VUT and KTU is both timely and strategic, providing an avenue for the two institutions to address shared development challenges through innovation, research, and technology.

As part of the visit, the Office of International Programmes and Institutional Linkages (IPIL) hosted the VUT delegation on a cultural and recreational tour to Boti Falls in Huhunya, where guests enjoyed a scenic canoe experience. The visit concluded with a dinner reception in honour of the delegation.

This partnership forms part of KTU’s broader international engagement agenda to build global collaborations that enhance academic quality, expand research capacity, and create new opportunities for staff and student development.

Koforidua Technical University (KTU), in collaboration with Zonta Club International, has launched a major initiative to empower women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) through education and innovation.

The partnership establishes a STEM Bursary Fund valued at GHS 1,290,000, to be distributed over 2026–2029, in support of 50 brilliant but needy female students pursuing STEM-related programmes at KTU.

The initiative is part of the University’s broader commitment to promoting gender equality, inclusivity, and excellence in technical and vocational education.

About the STEM Bursary Programme

The KTU–Zonta STEM Bursary Programme is designed to remove barriers that prevent bright young women from pursuing STEM disciplines. Each beneficiary will receive a comprehensive support package covering tuition fees, accommodation, and a laptop computer.

This three-fold support ensures that beneficiaries can focus fully on their studies without the burden of financial or logistical constraints. The programme also integrates mentorship and leadership development opportunities, linking students with accomplished professionals in engineering, technology, and applied sciences.

Eligibility and Selection Criteria

The bursary is open to Ghanaian female students who meet the following criteria:

• Admission into a STEM Programme at Koforidua Technical University (either continuing or newly admitted student).
• Academic Excellence – applicants must demonstrate strong academic performance and potential for success in STEM disciplines.
• Financial Need – applicants must provide evidence of financial hardship or limited family support.
• Character and Commitment – candidates should exhibit good conduct, leadership potential, and a strong desire to contribute to society through STEM.
• Recommendation – a letter of support from a teacher, head of department, or community leader confirming the applicant’s integrity and need.

A selection committee, comprising representatives from KTU, the International Programmes and Institutional Linkages (IPIL) Directorate, the Registrar’s Office, and the STEM Bursary Working Committee, will review all applications and recommend eligible candidates to the University Management and Zonta Club International for approval.

A Partnership that Transforms Lives

Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony, Dr. Frank Agyen Dwomoh, Dean of IPIL, described the partnership as “a celebration of possibility and progress.” He emphasized that the programme represents more than financial aid — it is an investment in the next generation of innovators, leaders, and change-makers.

“When you educate a woman, you educate a nation — but when you empower her in STEM, you transform a generation,” Dr. Dwomoh remarked.

The Registrar, together with the STEM Bursary Working Committee, will oversee implementation to ensure transparency, efficiency, and sustainability.

Administrator’s Insight and Vision

The Administrator of the International Programmes and Institutional Linkages (IPIL) Directorate, Mr. Agbodo Komla Godsway, threw more light on the long-term vision of the STEM Bursary Scheme. He explained that the target is to support 200 brilliant but needy female STEM students over the next few years, with 50 students already secured through the Zonta Club International sponsorship. The University is therefore seeking additional support to reach the remaining 150 beneficiaries.

He further appealed to corporate organizations, embassies, foundations, and international development partners to join KTU in bridging the gender gap in STEM education. ‘We believe that investing in women’s education is not charity — it is nation-building. We are hoping to hear from prospective donors, sponsors, and partners who share this vision,’ he said.

About Zonta Club International

Zonta Club International is a global organization committed to advancing the status of women through education, advocacy, and service. With members in over 60 countries, Zonta has been instrumental in supporting initiatives that promote women’s rights, equality, and leadership development.

Through this partnership, Zonta is reinforcing its commitment to empowering women in Ghana’s technical and higher education space, particularly in fields where female representation remains low.

A Call for Collaboration

Koforidua Technical University invites corporate institutions, NGOs, development partners, embassies, and philanthropists to collaborate and expand the STEM Bursary Programme. Together, we can create more pathways for talented but financially disadvantaged young women to access quality technical education and thrive in STEM careers.

Areas open for partnership include tuition sponsorship, accommodation support, laptop donations, laboratory modernization, internship placements, and mentorship development. Every contribution — financial or in-kind — brings us closer to building an equitable and inclusive STEM ecosystem for women.

How to Apply

Application details are on the link provided below.

For more information:

Office of International Programmes and Institutional Linkages (IPIL)

Koforidua Technical University

📧 ipil@ktu.edu.gh | ☎ 0244447072

🌐 www.ktu.edu.gh