Professor Bernard Kumi-Boateng Formally Invested as 4th Vice-Chancellor of UMaT

The University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) has officially ushered in a new era of leadership with the formal investiture of Professor Bernard Kumi-Boateng as its fourth Vice-Chancellor. The ceremony, held on August 1, 2026, at the UMaT Main Auditorium, marked a pivotal moment for the institution as it transitions from the leadership of Professor Richard Kwasi Amankwah. The event was attended by members of the academic community, government officials, and traditional leaders, celebrating a leadership change that followed an exhaustive and rigorous selection process by a dedicated Search Committee. Professor Kumi-Boateng’s rise to the pinnacle of academic administration is being hailed as an extraordinary story of resilience and determination. His journey, which is noted for its humble beginnings—including a period where he worked as a toilet attendant—serves as a testament to the power of education and perseverance in the Ghanaian context. This background adds a layer of inspiration to his appointment, positioning him as a relatable figurehead for students and faculty alike who aspire to overcome socio-economic barriers to achieve academic excellence. During the investiture, the University highlighted the rigorous nature of the search process that led to the Professor's selection. Having taken effect on the day of the ceremony, his tenure begins at a time when UMaT is expected to play a crucial role in Ghana’s industrial and mining sectors. As the fourth person to lead the university, Professor Kumi-Boateng inherits a legacy of specialized engineering education and is now tasked with driving the institution’s research and development goals to meet modern global standards. Looking forward, the administration of Professor Kumi-Boateng is expected to focus on strengthening the university's ties with the mining industry and expanding its technological footprint. As the country continues to navigate the complexities of resource management under the administration of President John Mahama, the leadership at UMaT will be essential in providing the technical expertise and skilled workforce necessary for national development. The successful transition of power underscores the stability and academic maturity of the institution as it embarks on this new chapter.