Prof. Jerry Samuel Yaw Kuma, a professor of geological engineering has been inducted into office as the 2nd Vice Chancellor of the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) with effect from October 16, 2012. Prof Kuma, a former Pro Vice Chancellor of the same university replaces Prof Daniel Mireku-Gyimah, who steps aside after eight years of meritorious service as the first Vice Chancellor of the University.

He comes to the new post with over 27 years of teaching, research and administrative experience and has distinguished himself as an excellent academician with over 35 researched papers in international journals to his credit.

A product of Universities of Ghana and Newcastle Upon Tyne, Prof Kuma took up his first teaching appointment in 1987 at the Department of Geology and Survey as an Assistant Lecturer in the then KNUST School of Mines, Tarkwa and by dint of hard work, rose through the academic ranks to occupy various positions as Head of Department, Dean and Pro Vice Chancellor.

In 2002, he received his PhD in civil engineering (water resources division) from University of Newcastle Upon Tyne and as part of team of researchers, won the Queen’s Anniversary prize for higher and further education in 2005 based on pioneering research in ecologically integrated remediation techniques for water pollution from abandoned mines. Inducting the new Vice Chancellor, Prof Bruce Banoeng-Yakubo, Chairman of UMaT Governing Council tasked the new VC to work to bring the image of the university into a high pedestal to maintain the university’s position as the standard university in Ghana.

In an address, Prof Kuma, paid glowing tribute to all stakeholders of the University and pledged to consolidate the success chalked by his predecessor and build a university hinged on a strong regulative framework, academic freedom and strong leadership with a clear vision and quest for excellence.

The new Vice Chancellor indicated his willingness to capitalize on the university’s strength and opportunities whilst proactively addressing the challenges and weaknesses of the institution to align it with the vision of UMaT to become a centre of excellence in Ghana and Africa in the training of professionals in mining, technology and related science.

Prof Daniel Mireku-Gyimah, the immediate past Vice Chancellor, earlier in a handing over speech, pledged his readiness to support the new Vice Chancellor and serve the University community in any capacity.