The Provost of the College of Health Sciences at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Professor Christian Agyare, has cautioned newly qualified veterinary doctors to use mobile phones and social media responsibly, warning that excessive use can become addictive and negatively affect their professional development.
He said while digital platforms offer important opportunities for learning, networking and career advancement, improper use could undermine productivity, academic progress and overall well-being.
Speaking at the White Coat Ceremony of the School of Veterinary Medicine on Saturday, June 13, 2026, which ushered a new cohort of veterinary doctors into the clinical phase of their training, Professor Agyare urged the graduates to maintain discipline in their online habits and remain focused on building successful careers in veterinary medicine.
“With this, I believe my students, the key advice apart from all the knowledge and information we have indicated has to do with your phone. How you make use of your phone and social media is very, very crucial,” he said.
“Make sure that you are controlling your phone and your social media engagement rather than these two items controlling you.”
He warned that social media platforms can be highly addictive, urging students to be mindful of their digital consumption.
“They are very addictive; you may not even know, so be careful with the use of these gadgets and engagement on social media,” he added.
Professor Agyare also used the occasion to commend faculty members for their commitment to training students, expressing optimism that the college would continue to strengthen its academic standing under future leadership.
He encouraged continued improvement in teaching and learning outcomes, saying the institution had the potential to become a leading reference point for veterinary education.
He further acknowledged alumni of the school, noting that although their numbers remain relatively small, many were making meaningful contributions both in Ghana and internationally.
“We need to appreciate them,” he said.
The Provost also expressed gratitude to benefactors and partners who support the college, encouraging more stakeholders, including parents, to contribute in any way they can to support the institution.
“It can be a small equipment, it can be a small donation, but small, small, as we say, we make the basket full,” he said, underscoring the importance of collective support in improving veterinary education.
