KNUST School of Veterinary Medicine Celebrates Pioneer Dean’s Legacy at 70
The KNUST School of Veterinary Medicine has marked the 70th birthday of its Founding Dean, Professor Raphael Deladem Folitse, with a formal ceremony celebrating his contribution to veterinary education and institutional development in Ghana.
The event, held on 2nd March 2026 at the School’s Complex at Boadi, brought together senior university officials, faculty, students, alumni, and guests to honour a figure widely regarded as instrumental in establishing and shaping the School.
Among those in attendance were the Provost of the KNUST College of Health Sciences, Professor Christian Agyare; former Provosts, Professor Peter Donkor and Professor Edward Tsiri Agbenyega; the Registrar of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Mr Benjamin Boampong; and the Registrar of the College of Health Sciences and first Secretary of the School of Veterinary Medicine, Mrs Regina Nuako.
In his remarks, Professor Peter Donkor, who served as Provost during the establishment of the School in 2009, recounted the processes and deliberations that led to its creation. He described Professor Folitse’s role as pivotal, citing his advocacy, strategic leadership and commitment during the formative years.
He highlighted in particular Professor Folitse’s initiation of the construction of the School’s permanent complex at Boadi, describing it as a defining milestone that secured the institution’s long-term growth.
“Inheritance without sweat is a big risk,” Professor Donkor said. “Those left behind must work hard to make the School better.”
Professor Christian Agyare commended the School’s progress over the past 17 years. From an inaugural cohort of 14 students, the School now trains more than 500, reflecting what he described as sustained academic development and increasing national relevance.
He reaffirmed the College’s commitment to supporting the continued expansion and strengthening of veterinary education at KNUST.
The current Dean of the School, Professor Benjamin O. Emikpe, described Professor Folitse as “an icon” whose leadership extended beyond administration to mentorship. He noted that the Founding Dean consistently prioritised the development of younger academics and students, helping to shape the School’s professional culture.
Professor Folitse is a Veterinary Surgeon specialising in Avian Medicine and an Associate Professor of Infectious Diseases. He obtained his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 1984 in Kiev, Ukraine, and later earned a Master of Science in Veterinary Pathobiology as well as Specialist certification in Avian Pathology.
His academic training includes studies at KNUST, the Ukraine Agricultural Academy in Kiev, the University of Minnesota, the University of Osaka Prefecture in Japan under the JICA Programme, and the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration.
Before his appointment as the pioneer Dean, he served as Head of the Department of Pathobiology at KNUST, contributing to research, teaching and departmental development.
Speakers at the ceremony described Professor Folitse’s tenure as foundational, noting that his leadership helped establish academic standards, administrative structures and physical infrastructure that continue to underpin the School’s operations.
As the School of Veterinary Medicine continues to expand its academic offerings and research profile, university officials say the framework laid during its early years remains central to its identity.
The event concluded with tributes from alumni and staff, many of whom credited Professor Folitse with influencing their professional journeys.
At 70, Professor Raphael Deladem Folitse is widely regarded within the KNUST community as one of the key architects of veterinary education at the university — a legacy that, attendees said, will endure well beyond the anniversary celebration.
