Christian Service University Launches Inaugural Edition of Academic Journal JASAB
Christian Service University (CSU) in Kumasi has launched the maiden edition of its interdisciplinary academic journal, the Journal of Applied Science, Arts and Business (JASAB), in a ceremony that drew scholars, clergy, and university administrators from across Ghana and beyond.
The event, held on the university’s campus, marked a significant step in CSU’s journey toward becoming a research-driven institution. The journal aims to provide a platform for cutting-edge research, scholarly collaboration, and thought leadership in applied science, arts, theology, business, and related fields.
In his keynote address, Prof. David Asamoah, Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), described the launch as a major accomplishment. He praised CSU for taking a bold step in asserting its voice in global academic discourse.
“Launching a journal is a demonstration of institutional maturity and scholarly intent,” Prof. Asamoah noted. “Journals connect minds across disciplines and nations and help shape solutions to societal problems.”
He stressed the need for editorial excellence, sustainable funding, and ethical publishing practices, urging CSU to maintain high standards in order to elevate JASAB to international prominence.
New Platform for Scholarship
Rev. Prof. Yaw Adu-Gyamfi, Editor-in–Chief of JASAB, said the journal had already gained momentum since its conception in late 2024. He announced key milestones including ISSN registration, the development of a digital presence, and the creation of an international advisory board comprising scholars from six countries.
The maiden edition of JASAB features 15 peer-reviewed articles—13 research papers and two book reviews—authored by scholars from 12 academic institutions in Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa. The journal embraces a wide range of disciplines including theology, education, public health, African development, and business studies.
Prof. Adu-Gyamfi reiterated the journal’s commitment to academic rigor, explaining that each submission undergoes a strict double-blind peer review process and plagiarism checks. Future plans include journal indexing, thematic special issues, and capacity-building programmes for early-career researchers.
Fulfillment of a Longstanding Vision
Welcoming guests to the event, CSU Vice Chancellor Prof. Sam K. Afrane recounted the university’s journey toward establishing a robust academic journal. He said the idea had been on his agenda since he assumed office in 2015, but progress was slow due to a lack of sustained leadership and institutional momentum.
That changed in October 2024, when a new editorial team was appointed and tasked with delivering a high-quality journal by May 2025. “Today, I am proud to say they delivered—and with distinction,” Prof. Afrane said.
He noted that the launch comes at a pivotal time in CSU’s history, following its Golden Jubilee celebrations in 2024 and the awarding of a full university charter in 2023. “JASAB is a fruit of our renewed commitment to academic excellence,” he added.
The Vice Chancellor emphasized that CSU is investing in research not just as a formality but as a core pillar of its strategic vision. He disclosed the establishment of a dedicated research fund to support staff who actively publish and contribute to knowledge production.
“Having a journal is only the beginning,” he said. “Its sustainability depends on strong leadership, regular research contributions, and adequate funding. We must all play our part.”
Prof. Afrane also reaffirmed the university’s theological foundation, stating that even as CSU expands its academic offerings, its Christian identity remains central. “The presence of theology in JASAB is a clear reflection of who we are,” he remarked.
Academic Journals as Tools for Development
Speaking as Vice Chairperson of the event, Rev. Mrs. Mary Fosu, Head Pastor of Grace Baptist Church, Amakom, lauded the journal as a timely intervention for national development and institutional growth.
She emphasized that academic journals not only advance research but also set ethical standards and foster intellectual exchange. “JASAB is a critical tool for raising a new generation of thinkers, leaders, and innovators,” she said.
She commended CSU’s management and editorial board for their dedication and called on all stakeholders to support initiatives that promote scholarship and innovation.
The ceremony was attended by top university officials, faculty members, students, guests from partner institutions, and members of the media. The atmosphere was one of pride and optimism as CSU charted a new path in academic publishing.
