The University of Mines and Technology is advancing its commitment to sustainability and practical education with plans to develop a 34-acre arboretum on its Tarkwa campus.
Vice Chancellor Richard Kwasi Amankwah revealed that the project is part of a broader strategy to expand academic programmes and strengthen hands-on training, particularly in anticipated courses such as Forestry and Land Reclamation. The proposed botanical garden will serve as a living laboratory for students, offering real-world experience in environmental management and conservation.
The announcement was made during the University’s commemoration of World Water Day 2026, where the institution highlighted its growing alignment with global sustainability goals. According to Prof. Amankwah, one of his key priorities since taking office has been embedding the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into the University’s teaching, research and community engagement.
UMaT has identified nine priority SDGs—including climate action, clean water and sanitation, and gender equality—as focal areas driving its academic and outreach activities. By integrating these goals into institutional planning, the University is positioning itself as a hub for industry-relevant research and community impact.
The Vice Chancellor also pointed to the University’s growing culture of observing key international days such as International Women’s Day and World Environment Day, which he said have strengthened ties between the University, industry players, and surrounding communities.
He noted that events like the World Day for Safety and Health at Work have gained strong participation from stakeholders, helping to promote safety awareness while reinforcing collaboration between academia and industry.
Prof. Amankwah further acknowledged the support of major industry partners, including AngloGold Ashanti, Gold Fields Ghana and Ghana Manganese Company, as well as traditional authorities and security agencies, in advancing the University’s development agenda.
The arboretum project marks a significant step in UMaT’s long-term vision to combine environmental stewardship with academic innovation.
