UMaT breaks ground for Mining Robotics and Engineering Materials Testing Lab

The University of Mines and Technology (UMaT), Tarkwa, has broken ground for the construction of a state-of-the-art Mining Robotics and Engineering Materials Testing Laboratory, a project funded under the Ghana Chamber of Mines Tertiary Education Fund (GCM-TEF).

The facility, described as a transformational investment for Ghana’s mining future, will house advanced mining simulators, engineering materials testing equipment, and AI-driven mine automation technologies aimed at redefining mining education, research, and industry practice.

Speaking at the sod-cutting ceremony, the CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Ing. Dr Kenneth Ashigbey, described the project as a strategic milestone that aligns with the rapid technological transformation sweeping across the global mining industry.

He highlighted that the Tertiary Education Fund is fully financed by producing member companies of the Chamber and reflects their belief that the future of mining depends on strong human capital and high-performing research institutions such as UMaT.

Dr Ashigbey noted that from 2014 to 2023, Ghana generated over US$40 billion in mineral revenue, with US$29 billion returned to the country through the Bank of Ghana and commercial banks, alongside over US$220 million in CSR investments.

Dr Ashigbey stressed that the robotics and materials testing center will revolutionise local content development by enabling Ghanaian manufacturers to prototype, test, and certify industrial materials locally rather than relying on expensive foreign laboratories.

“This moves Ghana from a passive buy-local policy to an active make local, innovate local, and certify local industrial strategy,” he stated.

Prof. Grace Ofori Sarpong, Pro Vice-Chancellor of UMaT, expressed profound gratitude to the Chamber of Mines for the continuous support and investment in human capital development.

She noted that since its launch in 2019, the first phase of the GCM-TEF—valued at over US$2 million—has significantly strengthened innovation and research at the university.

She emphasized that the new laboratory marks the second phase of the Fund and will provide hands-on training in robotics, virtual mining, automation, and emergency response technologies while addressing the increasing demand for internships and practical training spaces.

“This facility will further strengthen our shared mission of building a resilient, innovative, and inclusive mining industry in Ghana and beyond,” she said.

Member of Parliament for Tarkwa-Nsuaem, Issah Salifu Taylor, commended UMaT, the Chamber of Mines, and mining companies—including AngloGold Ashanti—for championing innovation that will benefit mining communities.

He emphasized that artificial intelligence is reshaping industries and believes the new facility will enhance precision, safety, and responsible mining across the sector.

“This innovation will go a long way to improve what we do in our mining communities and bring on board technical expertise for responsible mining,” he said.