KNUST Food Science and Technology Laboratories Atains ANAB ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Accreditation
The Department of Food Science and Technology at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has reached a groundbreaking milestone by earning the prestigious ANAB (ANSI National Accreditation Board) ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accreditation for its laboratory. This internationally recognized certification underscores the department's unwavering commitment to precision, excellence, and adherence to global standards in laboratory testing and calibration.
This achievement cements KNUST’s status as the first university in Ghana to secure this level of accreditation, marking the Food Science and Technology Department as the first in any Ghanaian university to achieve ISO International Accreditation. Additionally, the department’s laboratory is now the first within the Middle and Northern Belt of the country accredited to this scope.
A Journey of Dedication and Excellence
ISO/IEC 17025:2017 is regarded as the gold standard for laboratory competence in testing and calibration. Earning this accreditation required rigorous evaluations of the laboratory’s processes, equipment, documentation, personnel, and quality management systems. The path to this achievement was paved with relentless dedication, teamwork, and a steadfast pursuit of quality.
The Food Science and Technology Department embarked on this transformative journey with a vision to enhance its research capabilities and expand its contributions to academia, industry, and society. Achieving this certification positions the department among a distinguished group of institutions delivering internationally recognized and reliable test results.
Recognizing Support and Collaboration
This success would not have been possible without the unwavering support of key stakeholders. The department extends heartfelt appreciation to:
- The European Union-funded UNIDO WACOMP Ghana Project: For co-sponsoring the accreditation process and equipping the laboratory with cutting-edge technology, equipment, and essential logistics.
- Prof. Mrs. Rita Dickson, Vice-Chancellor of KNUST: For her strategic vision and dedication to the university’s mission of excellence.
- Prof. Leonard Kofitse Amekudzi, Provost of the College of Science: For his leadership and drive for quality.
- The Head of the Department of Food Science and Technology: For steering the department to this remarkable accomplishment.
- All Staff Members: Special thanks to Prof. Isaac Williams Ofosu, Prof. Jacob Kwaku Agbenorhevi, Dr. Herman Lutterodt,
- Dr. Rev. William Jonfia-Essien for their technical guidance and commitment throughout the process.
Saluting the Lab Team: Unsung Heroes
A special acknowledgment goes to the laboratory and technical team, whose expertise and dedication were central to this success. Key contributors include Dr. John-Lewis Zaukuu (Quality Manager), William Ofori Appaw (Deputy Quality Manager and Laboratory Manager), and Redeemer Kofi Agbolegbe, Mighty Elorm Akley, Yaw Agyei Gyasi, Justice Opoku Boateng, Naa Dede Ayensu, Honey Ntiamoah Abigail, Patience Abena Dotse, Pierret Naa Ayele, Dorcas Boketey, Mary Madalene Ganyo, Shalyn Emefa Yawlui and Faustina Ama Quansah whose collective efforts ensured compliance with stringent quality standards.
From developing and refining standard operating procedures to ensuring compliance with strict quality control measures, the team’s dedication was truly inspiring. Their collaborative spirit, problem-solving capabilities, and commitment to upholding the highest standards have set a benchmark for excellence. The department celebrates their achievements and looks forward to their continued contributions toward groundbreaking research and impactful service delivery. whose collective efforts ensured compliance with stringent quality standards. Their problem-solving abilities, resilience, and collaborative spirit have set a benchmark for excellence.
Unlocking New Opportunities
With this accreditation, the department is now poised to:
- Provide internationally accepted testing and analysis services to the food industry.
- Strengthen partnerships with both local and global stakeholders.
- Enhance student training with practical experience in a world-class laboratory.
- Advance food safety and quality assurance across Ghana and beyond.
- Deliver testing services that benefit Ghana’s food basket zones and support underserved SMEs.
Looking Ahead
This historic achievement is not just a testament to quality but also a springboard for future innovation and excellence. The department celebrates this shared victory with a renewed commitment to advancing food science research and services.
As KNUST’s Food Science and Technology Department continues to strive for impact and innovation, it invites partners and stakeholders to join in driving a brighter future for food safety and quality in Ghana and beyond. Together, the journey toward greater excellence continues.
