Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has charged graduates of the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) to place purpose, integrity, and collaboration at the heart of their innovative pursuits, as they prepare to contribute to Ghana’s development agenda.
She delivered the charge at the 10th Congregation Ceremony of UENR held in Sunyani, which brought together the Paramount Chief of the Dormaa Traditional Area and Chairman of the University Council, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyeman Badu II, members of the University’s Governing Council, management, faculty, parents, guardians, and students.
In her address, Professor Opoku-Agyemang emphasized that while technical competence and academic excellence are essential, they must be guided by a clear sense of purpose. She noted that true innovation is not merely about producing new ideas or technologies, but about solving real problems in ways that improve lives and advance society.
The Vice President stressed that experimentation, setbacks, and even failure are natural parts of the innovation process, urging graduates not to be discouraged by challenges. According to her, discipline, resilience, and perseverance are critical qualities for scientists, engineers, and professionals seeking to make meaningful impact in a rapidly changing world.
She further underscored the importance of developing technologies that are responsive to Ghana’s unique context—technologies that are affordable, accessible, environmentally sustainable, and capable of addressing everyday challenges in energy, natural resources management, and socio-economic development. She cautioned against adopting solutions that do not align with local realities, stressing that home-grown innovation remains key to long-term national progress.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang highlighted collaboration as a major driver of impactful innovation, noting that breakthroughs often occur at the intersection of disciplines. She encouraged stronger partnerships among universities, research institutions, industry players, and local communities to ensure that knowledge generated in academic settings translates into practical solutions for society.
The Vice President paid glowing tribute to the founding leadership of UENR and commended the collective efforts of academic staff, administrators, and traditional authorities for their role in nurturing and sustaining the University’s growth over the years. She also praised faculty members and researchers for their dedication to teaching, research, and innovation, describing them as the backbone of the institution’s success.
She expressed appreciation to parents and guardians for their sacrifices and unwavering support, acknowledging their critical role in shaping the academic journeys and future prospects of the graduates.
In a broader national call, Professor Opoku-Agyemang urged political leaders, private investors, and industry partners to deepen their engagement with UENR and other tertiary institutions. She noted that while government remains committed to providing an enabling policy environment, policies alone are insufficient to drive development. Strong institutional systems, strategic public-private partnerships, and sustained investment, she said, are indispensable for translating academic excellence into tangible national gains.
Story by: George Osei-Akoto Addae (Teacher Kojo) #ahotoronline.com/oseiakotor1@gmail.com