The University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) has appointed Professor Bernard Kumi Boateng, 48, as its first alumnus Vice Chancellor in 2026. Professor Kumi Boateng, a Professor of Geomatic Engineering, first joined UMaT as a student in 2001. His remarkable personal journey, from managing a public latrine in Kumasi to becoming a highly respected mining engineer, forms the foundation of his ambitious plans for the university.
Professor Kumi Boateng intends to transform the 70-year-old institution into a world-class engineering centre of excellence. His vision includes making UMaT central to Ghana’s mining and mineral resource governance and policymaking. This strategic direction aims to ensure Ghana maximises its natural resource wealth while also protecting the environment.
This appointment comes at a crucial time for Ghana's resource sector, which is a significant contributor to the national economy. Ghana is a major producer of gold, cocoa, and oil, and effective management of these resources is vital for sustained economic growth. UMaT's enhanced role in policy and talent development could significantly impact the sector's efficiency and sustainability. The institution's focus on producing skilled graduates and academic research directly supports the nation's long-term economic objectives.
Professor Kumi Boateng’s personal story highlights his resilience and commitment. He became a toilet attendant and sold second-hand shoes to support his family after his mother became ill. His early life experiences shaped his determination to pursue education, eventually leading him to UMaT. His mentor, Professor Mireku-Gyimah, then the Principal of UMaT, also had a humble beginning as a shoe-shine boy, further inspiring Professor Kumi Boateng.
The new Vice Chancellor plans to expand UMaT's capacity and influence. He noted that his class size in 2001 was only 23 students, but today, similar classes exceed 100 students. This growth indicates the increasing demand for engineering education in Ghana. Professor Kumi Boateng’s leadership is expected to further boost student enrollment and research output, aligning with Ghana's broader educational and economic development goals.
His leadership will focus on developing talent and academic scholarship that directly addresses the challenges and opportunities within Ghana's mining industry. This includes fostering innovation in resource extraction, environmental protection, and policy formulation. The success of his initiatives at UMaT could set a new standard for technical universities across the West African sub-region.
Stakeholders will closely watch how Professor Kumi Boateng implements his vision for UMaT. His ability to attract funding, forge international partnerships, and enhance the curriculum will be critical. The transformation of UMaT into a 'Ghanaian MIT' could significantly elevate the country's standing in global engineering and resource management. This move is expected to attract more investment and talent into Ghana's vital mining sector.