Tarkwa: The Ghana Chamber of Mines (GCM) has held a sod cutting ceremony to mark the beginning of construction for a Mining Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, and Minerals Testing Laboratory at the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) in Tarkwa. This facility, costing an estimated US$1,257,193.47, is poised to revolutionize Ghana's mining industry by enhancing its competitiveness and sustainability.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, the Chief Executive Officer of GCM, highlighted that the initiative is a continuation of the Chamber's Tertiary Education Fund (TEF), established in 2019 to bolster higher education, research, and innovation in Ghana's mining and related sectors. This project is funded by member companies who recognize the necessity of technological innovation and digital transformation for mining competitiveness.
Dr. Ashigbey emphasized the importance of building local capacity in AI, robotics, data analytics, and materials science to keep Ghana's mining sector relevant amidst the Fourth Industrial Revolution. He pointed out the potential for a paradigm shift towards integrated, intelligent, and autonomous operations that predict and prevent issues rather than just reacting to them.
The facility will also serve as a materials testing center, offering crucial services to various industries, including mining, petroleum, manufacturing, and construction. This local capability is expected to enhance safety, reduce operational costs, and foster national growth by retaining value within the country.
Mr. Frederick Attakumah, Chairman of the Governing Board of the GCM Tertiary Education Fund, reiterated the Chamber's commitment to collaborating with UMaT. He envisions the laboratory as a hub for transforming innovative ideas into practical applications, paving the way for future engineers and scientists to revolutionize mining operations and protect the environment.
Mr. Roger Adamah, Chairman of the Tender Committee, provided an overview of the project's phases. The ground-breaking ceremony marks the initial phase, with plans to equip the facility in the subsequent phase. The building, designed to accommodate the physically challenged, will feature a testing laboratory, robotics and AI labs, and a computer laboratory across its three floors, with ample seating and office space.
In terms of equipment, Mr. Adamah noted that six areas are under consideration, including AI computer and data infrastructure, AI-enabled robotics platforms, and AI testing and development tools. These areas are informed by their mining industry experience and anticipated technological advancements.
Mr. Issah Salifu Taylor, Member of Parliament for Tarkwa Nsuaem constituency, praised the GCM and its partners for their efforts, noting that the initiative would enhance expertise and decision-making accuracy across mining companies.
Professor Grace Ofori-Sarpong Akuffo, Pro Vice Chancellor of UMaT, expressed gratitude to the GCM for funding the project, which promises to strengthen innovation, research, and training in the mining sector.