Hidden Harvest: Celebrating Prof. (Mrs.) Ibok N. Oduro, FGA – A Legacy Lecture for Africa’s Food Future

The Department of Food Science and Technology at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) proudly announces the upcoming Inaugural Lecture of our distinguished colleague, mentor, and trailblazer, Prof. (Mrs.) Ibok N. Oduro, FGA.

Scheduled for Thursday, 11th June 2026 at 5:30 PM, the lecture will take place at the Kwame Nkrumah Auditorium, Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences (GAAS), Accra .

A Scholar, Leader, and Mother of the Department

Prof. Oduro is not only a globally respected Professor of Postharvest Technology, but also a pillar in the history and growth of our department. As a former Provost of the College of Science and one of the longest-serving Heads of Department, her leadership has shaped generations of scientists, researchers, and industry leaders.

Affectionately regarded as a mother of the department, Prof. Oduro has trained and mentored hundreds of students, many of whom continue to make significant contributions across academia, industry, and policy both in Ghana and internationally.

Her induction as a Fellow of the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences (FGA) in 2025 stands as a testament to her lifelong dedication to excellence in research, teaching, and national development.

The Lecture: Reclaiming Africa’s Plate

In her inaugural lecture titled:

“Hidden Harvest: Reclaiming Africa’s Plate”

Prof. Oduro will explore the untapped potential of Africa’s indigenous crops and food systems, and how science, innovation, and cultural knowledge can be harnessed to address pressing challenges such as food insecurity, malnutrition, and climate change.

The lecture promises to be both intellectually enriching and deeply inspiring drawing from decades of research, leadership, and advocacy in food science and postharvest technology.

A Call to the FST Community and Alumni

This is more than an academic event, it is a celebration of legacy, impact, and inspiration.

We warmly invite:

• Faculty and staff
• Current students
• Alumni of the Department
• Industry partners and collaborators

to come together in honour of Prof. Oduro’s remarkable journey.

Alumni and well-wishers are especially encouraged to reach out to the Department to pledge their support toward this landmark occasion. Your presence and contribution will reflect the enduring impact Prof. Oduro has had on all of us.

Mark Your Calendars

🗓 Date: Thursday, 11 June 2026
🕠 Time: 5:30 PM
📍 Venue: Kwame Nkrumah Auditorium, GAAS, Accra

As a department, we celebrate not only the achievements of Prof. Oduro, but also the vision she represents a future where African food systems are resilient, innovative, and rooted in our rich heritage.

Let us show up in our numbers to honour one of our finest.