The University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) plans to train 1,000 coders this academic year. Professor Richard Kwasi Amankwah, the Vice Chancellor, made this announcement. This effort supports the government's digitalization agenda. It aligns with President John Mahama's aim to train one million coders. This is to advance Ghana's digital economy.
The Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations is a key partner. It has donated 200 laptops to UMaT. The Ministry also provided 2,000 slots for students and staff. These slots are for Google certifications. This will improve their digital skills. It will also enhance remote working opportunities.
UMaT is also involved in other innovative projects. It collaborates with the Western Regional Coordinating Council. One project uses drones. These drones monitor river pollution. Another project converts waste plastics into diesel. This diesel could power the Aboadze Thermal Power Plant. These initiatives show the university's wider impact.
UMaT also trains professionals from other countries. It recently trained 24 professionals from MIDROC Gold Mine in Ethiopia. The training covered Mining Engineering and related fields. This helps bridge skills gaps in the mining sector. The Gabonese government may sponsor 20 students for engineering programs. Another 30 students might join the pre-engineering program.
The university receives significant support from various entities. Businessman Ibrahim Mahama contributed GH¢4 million. This was through Engineers and Planners. The contribution is for manpower and equipment. It aims to expand a dangerous road near the university. AngloGold Ashanti and the Ghana Chamber of Mines provide scholarships. They also offer research grants and support infrastructure development.
UMaT celebrated recent sports achievements. It won its first medals at the Ghana University Sports Association Games. This happened after over 20 years of participation. UMaT secured a silver medal in tug of war. It also won two bronze medals in table tennis and long jump.
At the recent Mini Congregation Ceremony, 95 students graduated. These included five PhD graduates. Eighteen students received Master's degrees. Twenty-one earned postgraduate diplomas. Forty-seven students completed Bachelor of Science degrees in engineering. Three distinguished Ghanaians received honorary doctorate degrees. Professor Amankwah noted this was his last congregation. He thanked staff and students for their support.