Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has delivered a stirring address at the 10th Congregation Ceremony of the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) in Sunyani, underscoring the imperative of innovation grounded in purpose, integrity, and collaboration. Her eloquent speech emphasized that technical skills, though vital, are insufficient to drive national development in isolation.

Prof Opoku-Agyemang stressed that meaningful progress in science and technology is contingent upon discipline, perseverance, and an unwavering willingness to experiment and learn from failure.

She posited that innovation must be tailored to Ghana's unique realities, yielding solutions that are not only efficacious but also affordable, accessible, and sustainable, thereby addressing the everyday challenges confronting citizens.

The Vice President's remarks also highlighted the indispensable role of collaboration, asserting that impactful innovation flourishes when academia, industry, institutions, and communities converge in a spirit of mutual cooperation, rather than operating in isolation.



She issued a clarificatory call to political leaders, private investors, and industry stakeholders, urging them to fortify their engagement with universities, positing that government policy alone is an inadequate catalyst for development sans robust institutions, strategic partnerships, and sustained investment.



In conclusion, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang enjoined the graduating class to permit integrity to guide their professional endeavors, to remain steadfast in their discipline and curiosity, and to dedicate themselves to the pursuit of excellence, reminding them that Ghana's future is inextricably linked to their ideas, energy, and collective capacity to work in concert for the greater good.

The ceremony, a prove to the university's growth and achievements, was graced by the Paramount Chief of the Dormaa Traditional Area and Chairman of the University Council, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyeman Badu II, alongside other dignitaries, including members of the Governing Council, university management, faculty, parents, guardians, and students.

Story by Lawrence Odoom/Phalonzy