Honouring a Pioneer: A Visit to Prof. James Henry Oldham
The Department of Food Science and Technology at KNUST recently had the privilege of paying a heartfelt visit to one of its most distinguished pioneers, Prof. James Henry Oldham, founding father of the department.
The visit was both a moment of reflection and celebration, as faculty and staff gathered to honour a man whose vision and dedication laid the foundation for what has become one of the leading food science programmes in the region. Prof. Oldham’s contributions to teaching, particularly in food chemistry, shaped generations of students and helped define the academic culture of excellence that continues to guide the department today.
Among those present was Prof. William Otoo Ellis, former Vice-Chancellor of KNUST and himself a proud student of Prof. Oldham. His presence was a testament to the far-reaching impact of Prof. Oldham’s mentorship, an influence that has extended across decades and continents, with many of his former students rising to become professors, researchers, and leaders in academia and industry.
Throughout the visit, there was a shared sense of gratitude and admiration. Alumni and faculty alike fondly recalled Prof. Oldham’s passion for teaching, his intellectual rigour, and his commitment to nurturing talent. His legacy is not only preserved in the department’s history but lives on through the countless individuals he inspired.
Now retired, Prof. Oldham enjoys a peaceful life centered around gardening and walking, pursuits that reflect the same patience, care, and curiosity that defined his academic career.
This visit served as a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of visionary leadership and dedicated mentorship. The Department of Food Science and Technology remains deeply grateful to Prof. Oldham for his invaluable contributions and continues to build upon the strong foundation he established.
Indeed, the story of the department cannot be told without honouring the legacy of Prof. James Henry Oldham.
