The University of Mines and Technology (UMaT), Tarkwa, has appointed Bernard Kumi-Boateng as its new Vice Chancellor, effective August 1, 2026.
The decision was taken at the University Council’s 98th Emergency Meeting held on April 13, 2026, at the Fiesta Royale Hotel in Accra .
Rigorous Selection and Council Approval
The appointment follows a rigorous and transparent selection process conducted by a Search Committee constituted by the University Council. The Committee undertook both national and international searches, applied clearly defined criteria, and carried out a thorough evaluation before submitting its recommendations.
The Council approved the appointment in recognition of Professor Kumi-Boateng’s distinguished academic record, leadership experience, and demonstrated ability to advance the University’s strategic vision.
Extensive Academic and Leadership Experience
Professor Kumi-Boateng brings nearly two decades of experience in teaching, research, and institutional leadership. He currently serves as Dean of the Faculty of Geosciences and Environmental Studies and is a Professor of Geomatic Engineering at UMaT .
He is widely recognised for his strong industry orientation and his ability to build strategic partnerships between academia and industry.
His leadership experience spans several key roles within the University, including Dean of Planning and Quality Assurance, Dean of Students, Vice Dean of Students, Vice Dean of International Programmes, and Head of three academic departments. He has also served on more than 200 ad hoc committees, reflecting his deep institutional involvement.
Strong International and Professional Profile
Professor Kumi-Boateng has extensive international academic engagements. He serves as an External Moderator at the University of Nairobi, a Visiting Professor at the University of The Gambia, and an External Examiner for the International Institute for Geo-information Science and Earth Observation in the Netherlands .
He has also contributed to global academic development through roles such as reviewer under the Carnegie African Diaspora Fellowship Programme and the UK’s Newton Fund.
In addition, he is a Fellow of several professional bodies, including the Ghana Institution of Surveyors and the West African Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum.
Contributions to Education and National Development
The new Vice Chancellor has played a significant role in strengthening higher education systems in Ghana and across Africa. He contributed to World Bank-supported initiatives on benchmarking African universities and helped develop competency-based training curricula and quality assurance frameworks for technical universities in Ghana .
He also served on technical teams that developed national curricula in areas such as Recycling Technology and Building Construction.
Research Impact and Industry Engagement
Professor Kumi-Boateng’s research and consultancy work covers a wide range of areas, including environmental management, urban mining, drone surveys, land access, and socio-economic impact assessment.
Since joining UMaT in 2007, he has helped secure research grants and consultancies worth over GH¢444 million, demonstrating strong credibility with both government and industry partners .
He has collaborated with institutions such as the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, AngloGold Ashanti, GIZ, and Atlantic Lithium.
A Historic Appointment for UMaT
A proud alumnus of UMaT, Professor Kumi-Boateng is the University’s first internally trained Professor to attain such distinction. He is also currently the youngest full Professor at the institution, highlighting his rapid academic progression and leadership potential .
Council Expresses Confidence in Leadership
Chairperson of the UMaT Council, Goski Alabi, expressed confidence in his ability to lead the University into its next phase of growth.
“The Council is confident that Professor Kumi-Boateng possesses the vision, integrity, and leadership capability required to guide UMaT into its next phase of growth,” she said.
Personal Background and Journey
Born on June 15, 1978, in Bantama, Kumasi, Professor Kumi-Boateng’s journey reflects resilience and determination. He studied at Tamale Secondary School before pursuing a BSc in Geomatic Engineering and an MSc in Geo Information Sciences at UMaT. He later completed his PhD in Geomatic Engineering in 2012 and rose to full Professor in 2020 .
He is married with two children and serves as an Elder of The Church of Pentecost.
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