Vice President Urges Graduates to Embrace Teamwork Over Solo Innovation
Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has urged graduating students to embrace collaboration as they enter the workforce, dismissing the idea of the solitary genius.
Speaking at the 10th congregation of the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) in Sunyani, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang emphasized that today’s complex challenges require partnerships across disciplines, sectors, and communities for sustainable solutions. “Progress will come from shared intelligence,” she stated, adding that collaboration is a strength, not a compromise.
The Vice President acknowledged the difficulties graduates will face but encouraged them to be guided by integrity, courage, and creativity. She reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting science, technology, and innovation through research funding, incentives for green technologies, and strengthened ties between academia and industry.
“We are committed to strengthening the systems that foster ideas by funding research, offering incentives for green technologies, and promoting collaborations between academia and industry,” she said. However, she stressed that the success of these initiatives hinges on the ingenuity and dedication of the graduates themselves.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang further called on industry partners and government stakeholders to deepen their engagement with UENR, investing in research, incubators, and pathways to market for promising technologies. She urged the Class of 2025 to confidently design sustainable energy systems, manage natural resources responsibly, and contribute to policy and job creation while protecting the environment.
In his address, UENR Vice Chancellor, Prof. Elvis Asare-Bediako, announced that a total of 2,336 students were graduating, comprising 16 PhDs, 218 Masters degree holders, 1,867 Bachelor of Science graduates, and 235 diploma awardees. He noted that 721 out of 2,102 undergraduate students – representing 34 per cent – were female.
The ceremony, held under the theme “Embracing Excellence in Innovation for an Impactful Sustainable Future – The Technologians Perspective,” saw Prof. Asare-Bediako describe the graduates as “skilled, tested and ready” for their respective fields. He urged them to be confident, compassionate, and to build robust, inclusive, and regenerative systems.
“Remember, your work will be judged by its consequences,” he stressed, adding that lasting impact requires excellence, innovation, and sustainability. He also encouraged the graduates to bridge the gap between knowledge and practical application.
Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu II, Chairman of the University Council and Dormaahene, emphasized that true excellence lies in the impact one makes on the lives of others. “Let integrity be your compass, innovation your tool, and service your legacy,” he admonished.
The Dormaahene, who is also President of the Bono Regional House of Chiefs, announced the establishment of an award scheme in honour of the late former President, Prof. John Evans Atta Mills, recognizing his contribution to the founding of UENR. The inaugural award, a salon car, was presented to Ms. Jennifer Addae, the 2025 valedictorian, a BSc Chemistry graduate with a final GPA of 3.95.
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