jasdooit

By Kamal Ahmed, GNA

Somanya (E/R), December 17, GNA – The University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD) marked its fifth anniversary, emphasizing its dedication to cultivating the next wave of environmental leaders while advancing sustainability and community growth.

The celebration took place under the theme: “Sustainable Actions for Protecting Our Environment: Five Years of Successes, Obstacles, and Advancements.”

It reached its peak with a large durbar held on the university’s grounds in Somanya, drawing in government officials, traditional leaders, scholars, development partners, and other groups.

Government representatives comprised Prof. Nana Ama Browne Klutse, head of the Environmental Protection Agency, Mr Innocent Haligah, Chief Director on behalf of Mr Emmanuel Armah-Buah, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, and Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, a former Education Minister,

The Institution of Environment and Sustainable Development was founded on August 5, 2020, in response to climate change, environmental decline, and the pressing demand for eco-friendly approaches.

Prof. Eric Nyarko-Sampson, the Vice-Chancellor of UESD, stated that the University was founded to create an environment essential for human survival, and it aimed not only to provide education and conduct research but also to develop citizens who would drive meaningful change toward a sustainable future.

He emphasized the Institution’s key achievements, such as the introduction of 27 Bachelor of Science programs and three postgraduate degrees, research partnerships with both local and global organizations, annual sustainability conferences, and projects like the Community-Based Experience Learning (COBEL) initiative, which engaged students in local communities to tackle environmental issues.

“Our students are more than just learners. They serve as representatives of hope, integrity, opportunity, resilience, and entrepreneurship, ready to address Ghana’s significant environmental and societal issues,” he stated.

Professor Nyarko-Sampson mentioned that UESD has created more than 50 local and global partnerships, including the Nkabom Collaborative Project supported by the Mastercard Foundation.

The initiative sought to provide 55,000 young Ghanaians with hands-on skills for meaningful work.

He stated that every collaboration demonstrated the University’s steadfast dedication to environmental sustainability and equitable growth.

Dr. Gloria Djaney Djagbletey, the Principal Research Scientist at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), and also the Guest Speaker, praised UESD’s swift development considering its young existence.

She mentioned it was encouraging to witness a young university building a solid academic and research base, noting that the UESD is promoting a climate of sustainable innovation and ethical community involvement.

“The work done today will have long-term effects on environmental management and policy in Ghana,” Djagbletey stated.

She stated that protecting the environment is a collective duty, and each choice made today will influence the world for future generations.

Mr. Seth Tekper, the head of the UESD Council, highlighted the difficulties encountered by the university, pointing to insufficient infrastructure, such as outdated digital systems, which hinder teaching, research, and administrative operations.

He requested the government, Parliament, and international collaborators to assist in finishing delayed construction initiatives, ensure sufficient office and lab facilities, and aid in resolving land ownership challenges.

He urged private sector representatives to assist the university’s endowment and finance research positions.

Mr. Tekper stated, “UESD is a crucial national resource. Funding this university means supporting Ghana’s environmental safety and tomorrow.”

Although facing financial and infrastructure challenges, the anniversary highlighted UESD’s commitment to continuing as a symbol of environmental responsibility.

One of the key moments during the event was the symbolic handover of flags from former students to junior employees, senior personnel, educators, and support staff, as well as the Management team, culminating with the Governing Council, representing the university community’s shared dedication to UESD’s mission.

GNA

Edited by E. B. Addae / Christabel Addo