Tarkwa: Professor Richard Kwasi Amankwah, Vice Chancellor of the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT), has announced the development of a 34-acre arboretum within the university's premises. This facility is intended to serve as a botanical garden to enhance practical teaching and research, particularly in upcoming programmes related to Forestry and Land Reclamation.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Vice Chancellor detailed the future integration of the arboretum into the university's curriculum during the observance of the 2026 World Water Day. Professor Amankwah emphasized that the arboretum would play a crucial role in practical training for students once the new programmes are launched. He further explained that the arboretum would act as a living museum dedicated to the cultivation and study of various plant species, thereby contributing to scientific research, education, and conservation.
Upon taking office five years ago, Professor Amankwah introduced two major initiatives with a focus on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UMaT has prioritized nine out of the 17 SDGs, concentrating on areas such as no poverty, gender equality, quality education, and clean water and sanitation, among others. These goals guide the university's research, industry collaborations, and community engagement efforts.
The university also aligns its observance of global days, like World Water Day, with these selected SDGs, strengthening its ties with industry and local communities. Professor Amankwah highlighted the university's active participation in other international observances, such as the World Day for Safety and Health at Work, which sees strong involvement from industry players and surrounding communities. This engagement underscores the university's commitment to promoting safety awareness and fostering closer relationships with external stakeholders.
In his address, Professor Amankwah expressed his gratitude to partners such as AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine, Gold Fields Ghana Limited, Ghana Manganese Company, and local authorities for their unwavering support of the university's initiatives.