Kentucky State University President Koffi C. Akakpo announced on Apr. 24 that the university is advancing with its academic program review as part of the implementation of Senate Bill 185, which was signed into law on April 13.
The review is a key step in fulfilling Kentucky State’s mission as the Commonwealth’s only public historically Black college and university (HBCU) and an 1890 land-grant institution. The process aims to ensure access, excellence, opportunity, practical knowledge, service, and student success for its students.
Akakpo said that while this stage began with the passage of SB 185, annual academic program reviews have been conducted at Kentucky State since 2023. “Let me emphasize that this academic review process is not in conflict with our identity. It is part of how we strengthen Kentucky State University for the future while remaining true to who we are,” Akakpo said.
Under SB 185, Kentucky State must operate within no more than ten academic areas during a five-year transition starting with the 2026–2027 school year. By June 1, 2026, the Board of Regents must submit a list of programs to maintain or recommend for closure or other changes. Akakpo explained that this work follows a “start, stop, or grow” framework developed over recent years: “That framework asks the questions every responsible university must ask: where we should start new programs, where we should phase out programs that no longer have sufficient demand or strategic fit, and where we should grow programs that are strong…and aligned with Kentucky’s needs.” He added these considerations reflect trends across higher education nationwide.
The current process includes four phases involving data analysis by deans and chairs; committee review by faculty and students; adjustments for alignment with a polytechnic focus; and final organization into ten required areas of study. “As Kentucky State moves more intentionally into its role as a four-year residential polytechnic-focused university,” Akakpo said, “we are not abandoning the broad educational foundation…We are connecting that foundation more deliberately to applied practice…and career preparation.” He emphasized continued integration of humanities within this approach.
Akakpo acknowledged uncertainty but expressed confidence in overcoming challenges: “Together, we will honor the legacy we inherited and build the University our students need for the years ahead…with clarity, courage, and confidence in Kentucky State’s future.”
