KsTU Faculty Members Join National Drive for Sustainable Fashion at ITFP Launch
Picture: A group photograph of the new board members and participants at the at the inauguration of the Institute of Textiles and Fashion Professionals of Ghana (ITFP).
The Faculty of Creative Arts and Technology (FCAT) at Kumasi Technical University (KsTU) took the center stage at the inauguration of the Institute of Textiles and Fashion Professionals of Ghana (ITFP). The historic event was held at the IDL Conference Centre of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), under the theme “Sustainable Fashion and Textile Production in the 21st Century: Global Trends and Local Impact.”
The event did not only mark the launch of a professional network for textile and fashion experts but also showcased the significant contributions of members to the development of the industry. Among the attendees were representatives from the FCAT KsTU, particularly from the Textiles Department, who actively contributed to the discussions on sustainable practices and innovation in the field.
Speaking at the inaugural Annual International Conference of the Institute, the Vice President of ITFP, Professor Ebenezer Kofi Howard, called on the government to provide policy support for the textile and fashion sector. He emphasised that the industry has immense potential for economic growth but has been neglected over the years. “The textile and fashion industry is the bedrock upon which most economic goods are grown,” he noted, urging policymakers to engage industry players and the academia to create opportunities for graduates in this field.
Professor Awurabena Gloria Okrah, a veteran in the textile and fashion industry, described the inauguration as a step towards positioning Ghana as a key player in the global textile and fashion landscape. She remarked, “It will make an impact not only locally and nationally, but also, globally.” The newly inaugurated ten-member board includes a mix of academic and industry leaders who are committed to driving the mission of ITFP.
The Board members include Prof. Charles Frimpong (Board Chairman, KNUST); Prof. Richard Acquaye (National President, Takoradi Technical University); Prof. Ebenezer Kofi Howard (National Vice President, KNUST); Dr. Daniel Danso (Secretary, University of Education, Kumasi Campus); Rev. Dr. Timothy Crentsil (Member, Kumasi Technical University); Dr. Solomon Ayesu Marfo (Member, Kumasi Technical University); Dr. Mercy Kuma-Kpobee (Member, University of Ghana); Dr. Josephine Aboagyewaa-Ntiri (Member, University of Education, Kumasi Campus); Mr. Agyenim Boateng (Member, Tex Styles Ghana Ltd.) and Mrs. Ewurabena Okrah (Member, Winglow Clothes & Textiles Ltd.)
The ITFP is a not-for-profit professional association that seeks to create a platform for collaboration among individuals in academia and industry. Membership is open to professionals involved in various aspects of textile and fashion production, including yarn and fabric manufacturing, fashion design, and education. The Faculty of Creative Arts and Technology at KsTU continues to play a pivotal role in advancing the textiles and fashion sector. With faculty members actively engaged in initiatives like ITFP, KsTU is set to lead in equipping students with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in the long-existing global industry.
