The Schools of Medical Sciences and Dentistry at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) welcomed its newest cohort of students during an orientation program. The program marked the beginning of a rigorous academic journey for the freshers who had successfully navigated a highly competitive selection process.

 

The Dean of the School of Medical Sciences (SMS), Prof. Akwasi Antwi-Kusi in his opening speech congratulated the freshers for their remarkable achievement in gaining admission. He revealed that “out of 1,040 applicants, only 280 were selected to join the School of Medical Sciences (SMS), congratulations on making it to the Schools of Medical Sciences and Dentistry.”

 

 

The Dean emphasized the importance of consistency in learning and punctuality in attending lectures. He encouraged the students to, “form study groups to foster collaboration and enhance academic performance”. The heads of various pre-clinical departments guided the freshers on the departments and faculties they would engage with throughout their academic journey.

 

Head of the Department of Pathology, Prof. Nicholas Akinwale Titiloye shared valuable advice with the students, urging them to focus on truly understanding the course material instead of resorting to cramming. “Seek help from friends and lecturers if you do not understand a topic, examination questions are designed to assess your understanding,” he advised.

 

 

Head of the Department of Anatomy, Prof. Chrissie Abaidoo, educated the freshers on the requirements of the school's dress code. “The school dress code guidelines must be followed at all times because this is a noble profession”

 

Mr. Michael Sakyi Boateng, the College of Health Sciences librarian, took the freshers through the various resources available at the library.

 

He encouraged them to make full use of the library’s online catalog, which allows students to search for books and resources without physically visiting the library.

 

Mr. Boateng also reminded students to show respect to the library staff. “When you visit the library dress properly and respect the staff at the library,” he noted.

 

The School‘s Exams officer, Prof. Samuel Asamoah Sakyi provided a thorough overview of the school’s assessment processes, course registration, grading system and examination procedures. He stressed the importance of timely and accurate course registration.

 

“Course registration is important in allocating marks and providing official evidence of exam participation and we have zero tolerance for examination malpractice,” he advised. The orientation proceedings were chaired by the Registrar of the School of Medical Sciences (SMS), Mr. Christopher Addo who ensured a smooth and informative session.