The University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) has awarded an honorary doctorate to Ghanaian businessman and philanthropist Ibrahim Mahama in recognition of his contributions to mining, construction, indigenous enterprise development, and national service.

The degree was presented at UMaT’s 18th Special Congregation on Saturday, January 31, 2026, attended by officials, faculty, graduates, and invited guests. President John Dramani Mahama was the special guest of honour.

In his acceptance speech, Ibrahim Mahama expressed gratitude, describing the honour as recognition of what determination, discipline, and opportunity can achieve outside traditional academic pathways.

“To be conferred with this honorary doctorate degree is not merely a personal honour; it is a recognition of what is possible when determination meets opportunity, when vision is pursued with unwavering discipline, and when success is shared with those who need it most,” he said.

'Be nice to everyone you meet, you never know when you will need them' – Ibrahim Mahama

He praised UMaT for its impact on Ghana’s mining sector saying; “UMaT has long been a beacon of excellence in mining education, producing the majority of the men and women who manage mines not only in Ghana but across Africa.”

Addressing global trends, he highlighted artificial intelligence (AI) as both a challenge and opportunity.

“AI presents profound challenges, but it also unlocks extraordinary opportunities, enhancing safety, improving efficiency, and even helping to combat illegal mining,” the renowned businessman said.

He commended UMaT for its AI Robotics Centre, established in collaboration with the Ghana Chamber of Mines, as a strategic investment for an AI-driven future.

Reflecting on his entrepreneurial journey, Ibrahim Mahama recounted founding Engineers & Planners back in 1997, which has grown into the largest wholly Ghanaian-owned mining and construction firm in West Africa.



“What began as a small indigenous company has, through hard work and the dedication of Ghanaians, grown into a business that employs thousands and contributes significantly to national development,” he said.

He also highlighted the Black Volta Gold Project as a landmark achievement.

“For the first time, a large-scale gold mining asset in Ghana is 100 percent owned and controlled by Ghanaians. This is a statement that we can lead in capital-intensive industries once dominated by others,” Ibrahim Mahama stressed.

Beyond business, he reaffirmed his commitment to philanthropy, inspired by his late mother Joyce Tamakloe.

“True wealth is measured by what we give away, by the lives we touch, and the opportunities we create for others,” he noted.

He therefore urged young people and graduates to embrace discipline, innovation, and integrity.

“Do not let anyone tell you that formal education is the only path to greatness. Vision, focus, and hard work are what turn dreams into reality,” he stated.

Ibrahim Mahama dedicated the honorary doctorate to Ghanaian workers, partners, and communities who have supported his journey.

In his remarks, President John Dramani Mahama, the guest of honour at the event, congratulated Ibrahim Mahama and praised his entrepreneurial instincts, recalling that his business acumen was evident from childhood.

“Even as children, Ibrahim displayed remarkable entrepreneurial instincts, always thinking of ways to create, build, and provide. I, on the other hand, have always been drawn to speaking and persuasion. It is inspiring to see how Ibrahim has turned his early entrepreneurial spark into a force for national development,” the President said.

In honour of his contributions, UMaT has established the Ibrahim Mahama Institute for Precious and Green Ghana, promoting sustainable mining practices, environmental stewardship, and the development of Ghana’s mineral and green economy sectors.

LIVE | The University of Mines and Technology confers an Honorary Doctorate Degree on Ibrahim Mahama, Founder of Engineers and Planners at the 18th Special Congregation Ceremony pic.twitter.com/uLWLem0XXz

— The1957News (@The1957News) January 31, 2026

LIVE | President John Dramani Mahama, together with the CEO of Engineers & Planners, Ibrahim Mahama, joins the academic procession to officially commence the 18th Special Congregation Ceremony of the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) pic.twitter.com/3F19NiMUb6

— The1957News (@The1957News) January 31, 2026

LIVE | President Mahama arrives at the 18th Special Congregation Ceremony of the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT), where his brother, Ibrahim Mahama, Founder of Engineers and Planners, will be conferred with an Honorary Doctorate Degree. pic.twitter.com/9GWpbYm8Pt

— The1957News (@The1957News) January 31, 2026