Innovation must be rooted in purpose and integrity —Veep to UENR graduates

Vice President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has challenged graduates of the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) to pursue innovation that is guided by purpose, integrity and collaboration.

She stressed that technical competence alone is not sufficient to drive national development.

Addressing the 10th Congregation Ceremony of UENR in Sunyani, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang said Ghana’s development agenda requires graduates who are disciplined, resilient and prepared to experiment, learn and even fail in the pursuit of meaningful solutions. She noted that while science and technology remain critical to national progress, innovation must be grounded in the real needs of society.

According to her, graduates must focus on developing solutions that are affordable, accessible and sustainable, and capable of addressing everyday challenges faced by Ghanaians. She urged them to ensure that their ideas are shaped by local realities rather than abstract theories detached from the country’s socio-economic context.

The Vice President also emphasised the importance of collaboration, observing that impactful innovation rarely occurs in isolation. She said strong partnerships among universities, industry, public institutions and communities are essential to translating research into practical outcomes that benefit society.

Beyond the graduating class, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang called on political leaders, private investors and industry players to strengthen their engagement with tertiary institutions. She argued that government policy alone cannot deliver development without strong institutions, sustained investment and strategic partnerships that support research, innovation and entrepreneurship.

She paid tribute to the founding leadership of UENR and commended the University Council, management, faculty and traditional authorities for their collective efforts in building and sustaining the institution. The Vice President also praised lecturers and researchers for advancing knowledge and innovation, and expressed gratitude to parents and guardians for supporting the academic journeys of their wards.

In her closing remarks to the graduates, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang urged them to allow integrity to guide their professional lives, remain disciplined and curious, and commit themselves to excellence. She reminded them that Ghana’s future depends on their ideas, energy and willingness to work together for the common good.

The ceremony was attended by the Paramount Chief of the Dormaa Traditional Area and Chairman of the University Council, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyeman Badu II, members of the Governing Council, university management, faculty, parents, guardians and students.