Vice President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has urged graduates of the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) to look beyond technical expertise and embrace innovation driven by purpose, integrity, and collaboration, stressing that skills alone cannot deliver national development.
Speaking at the 10th Congregation Ceremony of UENR in Sunyani, the Vice President said real progress in science and technology demands discipline, perseverance, and the courage to experiment, learn, and even fail. She noted that innovation must respond to Ghana’s unique circumstances, calling for solutions that are affordable, accessible, sustainable, and relevant to the daily challenges faced by citizens.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang also highlighted the importance of collaboration, explaining that meaningful innovation flourishes when universities, industry, public institutions, and communities work together rather than in isolation. She extended her message beyond the graduating class, urging political leaders, private investors, and industry players to strengthen their engagement with universities. According to her, government policy on its own cannot drive development without strong institutions, strategic partnerships, and sustained investment.
She paid tribute to the founding leadership of UENR and commended the University Council, management, faculty, and traditional authorities for their collective contribution to the university’s steady growth. The Vice President also praised lecturers and researchers for advancing knowledge and innovation and expressed appreciation to parents and guardians for their support in educating their wards.
In her closing remarks to the graduates, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang encouraged them to allow integrity to guide their professional lives, remain disciplined and curious, and pursue excellence in all their endeavours. She reminded them that Ghana’s future depends on their ideas, energy, and ability to work together for the common good.
The ceremony was attended by the Paramount Chief of the Dormaa Traditional Area and Chairman of the University Council, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyeman Badu II, members of the Governing Council, university management, faculty, parents, guardians, and students.