Accra Technical University (ATU) has brought the conversation on responsible mining and Ghana’s food security to the forefront of its 10th anniversary celebrations, using its anniversary public lecture to examine the effects of gold mining on farmlands while launching an Endowment Fund to support the University’s future development.
The event, held on Friday, October 23, 2026, at the Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra, brought together members of the University community, government officials, industry leaders, alumni and other stakeholders to celebrate a decade of growth and discuss issues affecting national development.
The public lecture, delivered by Mining Engineer Mr. Papa K.A. Empeh, was on the topic, “Beyond the Pit: The Cost of Gold on Ghana’s Farmlands and Food Security.”
In his presentation, Mr. Empeh examined the relationship between mining, agriculture and Ghana’s economy. He noted that although gold mining contributes significantly to national revenue and employment, its effects on farmlands, water bodies and food production could not be ignored.
He explained that mining and agriculture could exist side by side if mining activities were properly managed and damaged lands restored. He cited examples of previously mined lands that had been rehabilitated and used to grow crops such as oil palm, coconut, mango and cashew.
Mr. Empeh also called for better training for small-scale miners, stronger enforcement of environmental regulations and greater involvement of local communities in mining decisions.
He encouraged universities and research institutions to take an active role in assessing restored mining lands, particularly in determining whether crops grown
on such lands were safe for consumption. He believed that scientific testing would help build public confidence in land restoration efforts.
A major part of the occasion was the official launch of the ATU Endowment Fund by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Amevi Acakpovi, under the theme “Strategic Investment for Sustainable National Development.”
The Fund is intended to provide a reliable source of financial support for the University’s long-term development, particularly in research, innovation, student support and infrastructure.
Launching the Fund, Prof. Acakpovi called on alumni, industry partners, government, development organisations and individuals to contribute towards the initiative. He stressed the need to build a strong financial foundation that would allow the University to expand its programmes, improve facilities and create more opportunities for students.
The event also featured a speech delivered on behalf of the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, which highlighted the importance of technical and vocational education in Ghana’s development.
The message encouraged ATU to strengthen its links with industry and continue producing graduates with the practical skills needed to support industrial growth and national development.
Event gallery can be accessed via this link https://directorateofpublicaffairs-atu58.pixieset.com/atu10thanniversarypubliclectureandendowmentfund/
