The University of Mines and Technology (UMaT ) has proposed a new framework that would require small-scale mining operators to engage appropriately trained professionals as part of the licensing or licence-renewal process, as part of efforts to improve technical standards and curb destructive mining practices.
The proposal was put forward by the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT), Professor Bernard Kumi-Boateng, during discussions with the Minerals Commission on strengthening collaboration between academia and Ghana’s mining industry.
Prof. Kumi-Boateng said suitably trained UMaT graduates and Minerals Commission-licensed professionals could be deployed to support responsible small-scale mining and contribute to the national fight against illegal mining.
He argued that greater technical expertise within the small-scale mining sector could improve operational standards, promote environmentally responsible mining and create employment opportunities for mining graduates.
The proposal formed part of a broader engagement between UMaT and the Minerals Commission to strengthen research, skills development and technical support for Ghana’s mining sector.
Welcoming the UMaT delegation, led by Prof. Kumi-Boateng, the Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Isaac Andrews Tandoh, said closer collaboration between the two institutions could help translate academic research into practical solutions to challenges facing the mining industry.
Mr. Tandoh said the Commission was prepared to support relevant research initiatives by UMaT, noting that regulatory and institutional backing could strengthen efforts to secure government support and funding for research aligned with national priorities.
“This should not be a one-time engagement. Let us work together, identify our common priorities and determine how both institutions advance the development of Ghana’s mining sector,” he said.
Prof. Kumi-Boateng also proposed collaboration between UMaT and the Commission on research and technical assignments, including environmental and operational impact assessments and resettlement planning.
He further outlined plans to broaden access to mining education, including the introduction of a mandatory Postgraduate Diploma in Sustainable Mining for all UMaT students.
The Vice-Chancellor also called for collaboration to provide professional certification for non-technical mining professionals to strengthen their skills and improve their career prospects.
Mr. Tandoh welcomed the proposal to introduce professional certification and trained personnel into small-scale mining, saying clear professional standards would strengthen accountability and ensure that those responsible for mining operations could be held accountable for breaches of mining and environmental requirements.
The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Dr. Yusif Sulemana, who attended the meeting, urged both institutions to move beyond discussions and translate the proposals into concrete actions.
He pledged the Ministry’s support for collaboration between the Minerals Commission and UMaT to advance the proposals.
The engagement followed the assumption of office of Prof. Kumi-Boateng as Vice-Chancellor of UMaT and reaffirmed the institutions’ commitment to strengthening research, professional skills and responsible mining practices in Ghana.
