Management of Sunyani Technical University (STU) has visited Newmont Ahafo North Mine located at Afrisipakrom in the Tano North Municipality to strengthen collaboration between academia and industry.
The visit forms part of efforts to align technical education with industry demands and promote partnerships that support Ghana’s mining sector and economic development.
Welcoming the delegation, the General Manager of the mine, Charles Bissue, described the facility as a strategic investment of Newmont Corporation in Africa. He emphasised the importance of bridging the gap between theory and practice, especially as STU prepares to introduce a Mining Engineering programme.
Modern mining
According to him, modern mining goes beyond resource extraction to include sustainability, safety, and community development. He noted that the mine is ready to support practical training by offering students firsthand exposure to real-world operations.
Since its commissioning in October 2025, he said, Ahafo North has grown into a hub of innovation, supported by skilled personnel and advanced technologies.
Mr. Bissue also highlighted Newmont’s commitment to environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and human capital development through training and mentorship programmes. He described the partnership with STU as a vital bridge that can equip students with practical skills and foster research to address industry challenges.
Long-term partnership
The Vice-Chancellor of STU, Kwadwo Adinkrah-Appiah, called for a more structured and long-term partnership, guided by the Triple-Helix model of collaboration between academia, industry, and government.
He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to producing industry-ready graduates and proposed regular engagements, including joint committees, to align academic training with industry needs.
Key areas identified for collaboration include joint research in mining technology, environmental sustainability, and safety, as well as capacity-building initiatives such as internships, scholarships, staff exchanges, and industry-led seminars.
Joint research hub
The Vice-Chancellor also proposed the establishment of a joint research hub and appealed for support in developing infrastructure, including laboratories and technical equipment at STU.
He commended Newmont’s contribution to Ghana’s economy, citing over GH¢5 billion in corporate taxes paid in 2025, and praised the impact of the Newmont Ahafo Development Foundation in supporting host communities.
Both parties expressed optimism about the partnership’s potential to deliver long-term benefits for students, industry, and local communities.