University of Padova Delegation Visits KNUST College of Engineering
A delegation from the University of Padova, Italy, paid a courtesy call to the KNUST College of Engineering, strengthening its international partnership. Prof. Kwabena Biritwum Nyarko, Provost of the KNUST College of Engineering, warmly received the guests.
Head of the Material Engineering Department, Prof. Emmanuel Gikunoo, outlined the partnership’s benefits, which have already enabled a PhD student to complete a 3-month research exchange at the University of Padova focused on waste management. An upcoming faculty exchange and collaboration with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) further deepens the partnership.
In his welcome, Provost Nyarko expressed his appreciation for the delegation's efforts, stating, "We believe that when we work together, we can go far and make a significant impact." He proposed expanding cooperation through initiatives like joint online research presentations for postgraduate students.
The team held a technical seminar with students and faculty, featuring presentations from Prof. Gilberto Artioli on Diffraction techniques in materials science: state of the art & future. And Prof. Luca Valentini on Thermodynamic modelling in the management of industrial waste streams.
Adding an inspiring perspective, Mr Victor Mutai, a PhD candidate, presented his research on Coupling Design of Experiments with Machine Learning for Sustainable Cement Formulation, conducted at the University of Padova.
Prof. Gikunoo confirmed that the partnership continues to evolve, with planned activities including enhanced student and staff mobility, joint research projects, and specialised online training for faculty in advanced characterisation techniques.
The Vice Dean of the Faculty of Mechanical and Chemical Engineering, Prof. Kwadwo Mensah-Darkwa, noted that the visit marked an excellent beginning for deeper academic and research integration, with fruitful interactions already held with both students and departmental staff.
Group photograph after the seminar
This visit solidifies a forward-looking international alliance for the KNUST College of Engineering, promising continued innovation in materials science and sustainable engineering through global knowledge exchange.
