Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science Hosts Enlightening Public Lecture: Nurturing the Future of Statistical Expertise
The Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) held an enlightening public lecture showcasing the multifaceted realm of statistics and its profound impact on diverse fields. The event, held at the Aboagye Menyeh Auditorium of the College of Science, attracted a diverse audience, including students, faculty members, and distinguished guests, all eager to delve into the world of statistical sciences. The public lecture commenced with a warm and inspiring welcome address by the esteemed Prof. Nana Kena. His words set the stage for an evening of intellectual exploration and discovery. The first speaker, Miss Wilhelmina Adoma Pels, captivated the audience with her insightful discourse on the process of selecting research areas for the final year thesis.
Miss Pels emphasized that students must make thoughtful choices when selecting two research areas – their first choice and their second choice. She stressed the significance of self-reflection, encouraging students to look within themselves to identify their true passions and interests. This self-awareness, she highlighted, would lead to meaningful and fulfilling research pursuits, thus enhancing the overall quality of the final-year thesis projects.
Expanding on Miss Pels' profound insights, Prof. Nana Kena further elaborated on the purpose behind grouping students during their final year projects. 
He explained that intentional collaboration aims to develop and hone essential teamwork skills in students. Prof. Kena emphasized that learning to work cohesively within a team is crucial for academic success and a fundamental attribute for future professional growth.
The guest speaker, Dr. Emmanuel De-Graft Johnson Owusu-Ansah, took the podium and delivered a captivating talk on the global importance and demand for statistics. Dr. Owusu-Ansah's presentation shed light on a plethora of rewarding careers in statistics, accompanied by valuable salary information for these roles. 
His illuminating discourse showcased the versatility of statistics, emphasizing its indispensable role in various sectors such as data science, banking, the mining industry, marketing, engineering, naval operations research, and more. Dr. Owusu-Ansah also highlighted the symbiotic relationship between human expertise and artificial intelligence (AI), emphasizing the critical role of human minds in complementing AI's capabilities.
&Mr. Akpor Adjei delved into the intriguing biostatistics world. He emphasized the vital role of statistical knowledge as a foundational requirement for engaging in biostatistical research. Mr. Adjei stressed that a sound grasp of reasoning and interpretation is essential for excelling in biostatistics, as these skills empower professionals to derive meaningful insights from complex data.
As the public lecture came to a close, attendees left with a heightened appreciation for the far-reaching significance of statistics. The event successfully highlighted the pivotal role that statistics plays in shaping various aspects of modern life and the tremendous potential it holds for driving innovation and societal progress.
The Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science at KNUST demonstrated its commitment to nurturing a new generation of statistical experts. By hosting this illuminating public lecture, the department underscored its dedication to equipping students with the necessary tools and knowledge to make informed decisions and positively impact the world through the lens of statistical expertise. The resounding success of the event further solidified KNUST's position as a frontrunner in statistical education and research, inspiring a future generation of statisticians and data-driven decision-makers.
