The Governing Council of the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT), Tarkwa, has appointed Professor Bernard Kumi-Boateng as the institution’s new Vice-Chancellor, with effect from August 1, 2026.
The appointment, announced by the Chairperson of the UMaT Governing Council, Goski Alabi, follows what the university describes as a rigorous, transparent, and merit-based selection process conducted by a specially constituted Search Committee.
According to the Council, the committee undertook a nationwide and international search, applying strict criteria and conducting a detailed evaluation of shortlisted candidates before presenting its recommendations.
After reviewing the report, the Governing Council approved the appointment of Prof. Kumi-Boateng, citing his strong academic credentials, leadership experience, and capacity to advance UMaT’s strategic direction in mining, engineering, and applied sciences.
Council Chairperson Prof. Alabi expressed confidence in the incoming Vice-Chancellor, stating that his appointment marks a new phase of growth for the university.
She noted that the Council was particularly impressed by his track record in academic leadership, research, and institutional development, adding that the university looks forward to working closely with him to strengthen UMaT’s position as a leading technical institution in the sub-region.
The Council also commended the Search Committee for its professionalism and diligence in ensuring a credible selection process, and acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing Vice-Chancellor for advancing the university’s development.
Stakeholders—including staff, students, alumni, and development partners—have been urged to support the incoming Vice-Chancellor as he assumes leadership of the institution.
Profile: Incoming Vice-Chancellor
Professor Kumi-Boateng is a Full Professor of Geomatic Engineering and currently serves as Dean of the Faculty of Geosciences and Environmental Studies at UMaT. He is recognised for his extensive experience in teaching, research, and academic leadership spanning nearly two decades.
He has held several senior administrative positions within the university, including Dean of Planning and Quality Assurance, Dean of Students, Vice Dean roles, and Head of multiple academic departments.
Beyond UMaT, he has contributed to international academia as an external moderator at the University of Nairobi in Kenya, a visiting professor at the University of the Gambia, and an external examiner with the International Institute for Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation (ITC) in the Netherlands.
He has also served on several regional and international academic and examination bodies, including committees of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), and has participated in global research funding and evaluation initiatives such as the Carnegie African Diaspora Fellowship Programme and the UK Newton Fund.
His research interests include project management, environmental and land management, drone surveying, resettlement action planning, and sustainable community development. He has also been involved in consultancy work and development projects with institutions such as GIZ, the World Bank, and various mining and environmental organisations.
The Governing Council says his combination of academic expertise, industry engagement, and administrative experience positions him to lead UMaT into its next phase of development.
