The Department of Medical Imaging at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has organised an academic and career development event dubbed "Image the Future: Breakfast Conversation" to prepare its final-year students for successful careers and lifelong professional growth.
Held on 30th June 2026 at Room 103 of the School of Nursing and Midwifery Building, the maiden edition of the programme brought together students, faculty members and distinguished speakers to engage in meaningful conversations on career development, mentorship, research and leadership.
Delivering the keynote address, Christian Ven Emery, a PhD candidate at the University of Birmingham, United Kingdom, challenged students to be intentional about the future they aspire to build. Drawing from his personal academic and professional journey, he encouraged them to remain focused on their goals, seek mentorship and persevere despite challenges.
He urged the students to continuously invest in their personal development by strengthening their communication skills, enhancing their professional presentation, and cultivating qualities that set them apart in competitive academic and career environments.
Mr. Emery also highlighted the importance of undergraduate research, describing it as a valuable platform that can unlock opportunities for research grants, scholarships and postgraduate education. He encouraged students to approach their final-year research projects with commitment and excellence, noting that quality research can significantly influence future academic and professional opportunities.
Speaking at the event, the Head of the Department of Medical Imaging, Dr. Andrew Donkor, underscored the Department's commitment to equipping students with the knowledge and practical skills required to navigate life beyond the classroom.
He explained that the "Image the Future: Breakfast Conversation" was introduced to bridge the gap between undergraduate education and professional practice by exposing students to practical career experiences and mentorship.
Dr. Donkor expressed the Department's intention to institutionalise the programme as an annual event to ensure that every graduating class benefits from guidance that supports a smooth transition into the world of work and postgraduate opportunities.
The Provost of the KNUST College of Health Sciences, Professor Christian Agyare, commended the Department for initiating the programme, describing it as a timely intervention that complements students' academic training.
He encouraged the final-year students to embrace innovation and entrepreneurship while developing the capacity to identify problems within society and create practical solutions. According to him, graduates who combine technical competence with creativity, resilience and leadership are better positioned to make meaningful contributions to healthcare and national development.
Professor Agyare further urged the students to take networking seriously, stressing that meaningful professional relationships can create opportunities for career advancement, collaboration and lifelong learning. He also encouraged them to cultivate a strong work ethic, maintain positive attitudes and pursue excellence in every stage of their professional journey.
The interactive session provided students with the opportunity to engage directly with the speakers, ask questions and gain practical insights into academic progression, research, career planning and professional development.
The "Image the Future: Breakfast Conversation" reflects the Department of Medical Imaging's commitment to producing graduates who are not only academically competent but also well-prepared to excel as healthcare professionals, researchers and leaders in an evolving global healthcare landscape.
