Mr. Henry Antwi, a Fellow of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (FAusIMM), emphasized the importance of human capital development in unlocking Ghana's resource potential. Speaking at the Seventh Annual conference of the AusIMM Tarkwa Student Forum at the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) in Tarkwa, he called for increased investment in infrastructure and resource capacity at universities to build the skills of graduates.
He stressed the need for graduates to be equipped with the right tools and technology to innovate and drive productivity in the mining industry. Mr. Antwi highlighted the role of competition and technology in driving change, urging mining professionals to adapt and develop their skills to meet industry demands.
Furthermore, Mr. Antwi discussed the application of revolutionary knowledge in artificial intelligence, robotics, and autonomous mining, emphasizing the importance of alternative energy sources such as renewable energy in the global effort to decarbonize economies. He challenged academia to develop technologies that increase the discovery of new mineral deposits, particularly critical minerals like lithium, copper, and cobalt.
Mr. Samuel Boakye Pobee, Managing Director of AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine, emphasized the need for collaboration and a collaborative attitude among students. He advocated for group assignments to foster teamwork and prepare students for the collaborative nature of modern workplaces.
Mr. Stephen Yamoah Asante, General Manager of Chirano Mine, encouraged students to seize opportunities for self-development, emphasizing the value of practical skills and the ability to add value to employers. Despite limited vacancies, he noted that employers prioritize candidates who demonstrate the potential to contribute effectively to the workforce.
Miss Ekuba Bezeba Yalley, a lecturer at UMaT, highlighted the importance of encouraging women to pursue studies in science and engineering. She emphasized efforts at UMaT to increase female representation in the mining industry through gender mainstreaming policies.
Mr. Daniel Obeng Boadi, President of the AusIMM Tarkwa Chapter, acknowledged the support of stakeholders in providing professional development opportunities for students, including webinars, mine visits, networking events, and scholarships.
Dr. Kofi Peter Amponsah-Mensah, Director of Pamicor Limited, Mr. George Asongo, Mine Manager at Golden Star Resources, Wassa Mine, and Miss Josephine Wesoama Valejega of the Minerals Commission also attended the conference.
