President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Minerals Commission to promptly issue a small-scale mining licence to the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT), paving the way for the institution to begin operating its long-planned model mine.
The presidential directive was given during UMaT’s 18th Special Congregation ceremony, held at the university’s campus, where 55 postgraduate students were awarded degrees. The graduands included six Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) recipients and 21 master’s degree holders, reflecting the institution’s growing contribution to advanced research and professional training in Ghana’s mining sector.
Addressing the gathering, President Mahama stressed the importance of translating academic knowledge into practical solutions for national development, particularly in the extractive industry. He instructed the Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission to ensure that the university’s licence is issued without further delay and called on the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources to support and expedite the process.
According to the President, both the Minerals Commission and the sector ministry were adequately represented at the ceremony, making it possible for immediate administrative action to be taken. He indicated that the government expects strong collaboration among state institutions to remove bottlenecks that hinder educational and research-driven initiatives.
Earlier in the programme, the Vice-Chancellor of UMaT, Professor Richard Kwasi Amankwah, revealed that the university had completed all required exploration work for the proposed mine. He explained that the project had reached an advanced stage and was only awaiting regulatory approval to commence operations.
Professor Amankwah described the model small-scale mine as a strategic intervention aimed at promoting responsible and environmentally sustainable mining practices. He noted that the initiative would serve as a practical training facility for students, researchers, and industry players, while also demonstrating best practices in small-scale mining to the wider public.
The UMaT Vice-Chancellor further indicated that the mine could play a critical role in national efforts to address illegal mining, commonly referred to as “galamsey,” by providing a working example of how small-scale mining can be conducted legally, safely, and with minimal environmental impact.
UMaT, Ghana’s premier specialised mining and engineering university, has for years sought to bridge the gap between classroom instruction and real-world mining operations. University authorities believe the model mine will enhance hands-on learning, improve graduate employability, and support research into efficient and responsible extraction methods.
The ceremony also attracted high-profile personalities from academia, industry, and government. Among them was the Chief Executive Officer of Engineers and Planners, Ibrahim Mahama, who was awarded a PhD during the congregation. His presence underscored the strong links between the university and the mining and engineering industry.
Observers say the President’s directive signals renewed political backing for institutional-led mining initiatives and could mark a turning point for UMaT’s ambitions to become not only a centre of academic excellence but also a hub for applied mining innovation.
Once the licence is issued, the university is expected to begin operations at the model mine under strict regulatory supervision, with a focus on research, training, and community engagement. Stakeholders in the mining sector are hopeful that the project will contribute to policy development and set higher standards for small-scale mining in Ghana.
The Minerals Commission and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources are yet to formally comment on timelines for issuing the licence, but President Mahama’s public directive has raised expectations of swift action.
Source: Africa Publicity
