In its 15th congregation, the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT), Tarkwa, celebrated the graduation of 767 students with various degrees, diplomas, and certificates.
The ceremony recognized 80 postgraduate degrees, including 13 Doctor of Philosophy degrees, 582 first-degree recipients in engineering programs, 7 diploma awardees, and 98 certificate recipients. The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Richard Kwasi Amankwah, highlighted the achievements of the university, including recognition for the Minerals Engineering Department’s publications, success in the Regional Petrobowl Contest, and the first-place win in the Virtual Directional Drilling Rig Simulator Design option in the International Drillbotics Competition.
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Excellence Recognized: Best Graduating Student and Outstanding Staff
The prestigious Vice Chancellor’s overall best graduating student award went to Mr. Abdul-Rahman Ishaak from the Department of Mining Engineering. The award, sponsored by the UMaT Alumni Association, included a laptop computer, a cash prize of GH¢2,000.00, and a certificate. Additionally, the university acknowledged the outstanding contributions of staff members with the Best Workers Awards.
Mr. Hermas Abaah Akolgo and Mr. Roland Blisette received the Senior and Junior Staff Category awards, each accompanied by a cash prize of GH¢2,500 and a citation. These recognitions aimed to motivate staff to provide their best services in the interest of the university.
UMaT’s Commitment to Responsible Mining and Community Development
Professor Richard Kwasi Amankwah, Vice Chancellor of UMaT, emphasized the university’s commitment to responsible mining and community development. UMaT observed the Sustainable Small-scale Mining Awareness Day, engaging the Akoon Community Mine to promote sustainable and environmentally friendly mining practices.
To address the employment gap in mining communities, the university collaborated with the Bibiani Community to establish the Bibiani Community School, preparing community members for professional jobs in the mining and minerals industry. The university’s initiatives also included the Annual Innovation and Career Fair to promote innovation among students and engage local schools in laboratory interactions.
Acknowledgements and Collaborations for Sustainable Development
Professor Amankwah expressed gratitude for the support received from various institutions, including the Government through the Minerals Development Fund (MDF) and the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF). The MIIF allocated USD 2.0 million to support the establishment of the Jewellery Centre and confirmed its support for the Ghana Mining Museum at UMaT. The Ghana Chamber of Mines, AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Limited, and other companies were recognized for their financial support, scholarships, research grants, and infrastructure contributions. The Vice Chancellor urged mining companies to utilize the state-of-the-art environmental laboratory at UMaT for sample analysis.
Former President John Agyekum Kufour, Chancellor of UMaT, encouraged the graduates to uphold ethical standards and contribute to the development of communities and organizations. He expressed confidence that the graduates could leverage their knowledge to address the country’s challenges and propel communities to the next level of development.
