The University of Mines and Technology (UMAT) and Rabotech, a renowned mining services company, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish a university mine.

This groundbreaking collaboration is set to enhance mining education and industry practices in Ghana, providing students with invaluable hands-on experience.

Rabotech's commitment to education and industry

CEO of Rabotech, Ali Ibrahim, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the company’s long-standing dedication to the mining and engineering sectors since its inception in 2003.

"RaboTech has been in business from day one, continually expanding our services in the mining and engineering industries. This collaboration with UMAT is a significant part of our plans for skill and business development," he said.

Mr Ibrahim also noted that Rabotech had previously collaborated with UMAT to recruit and develop graduate engineers, many of whom have gone on to occupy prominent positions in the mining industry both locally and internationally.

The new venture will see Rabotech providing the necessary funding, manpower, and expertise to ensure the successful development and operation of the university mine.

UMAT’s vision for practical education

Vice Chancellor of UMAT, Prof Richard K. Amankwah, expressed his excitement about the partnership, emphasizing its alignment with the university’s mission to foster sustainable development and strengthen industrial relations.

"We are thrilled about this partnership with Rabotech. It aligns perfectly with our goal to integrate sustainable development and strengthen our triple helix engagements with industry and community. The mine will be a flagship project, showcasing our commitment to practical, hands-on education," Prof Amankwah stated.

He added that the university had already been exploring on the small-scale mining blocks allocated to them and identified zones of mineralization. However, starting a mine with limited resources posed a challenge, which Rabotech’s support is set to overcome.

Roadmap to success

Operations Executive of Rabotech, Daniel Quaye, outlined the company’s commitment to the project, detailing the roadmap for the development of the mine. He emphasized the importance of human capital in mining success and highlighted the strategic involvement of UMAT graduates.

"Our goal is to leverage UMAT's academic excellence and Rabotech's industry expertise to develop a state-of-the-art mining facility. We have a clear roadmap and are committed to seeing this project through to its successful completion," he said.

Rabotech will bring in the necessary expertise, skill sets, and equipment, ensuring regulatory compliance and adherence to industry standards. The collaboration aims to make the university mine a model for other institutions in Africa and beyond, setting a new benchmark for university-industry partnerships.

A bright future for mining education

This landmark partnership between UMAT and Rabotech is poised to revolutionize mining education in Ghana. The university mine will serve as a training ground for future mining engineers, providing them with practical experience and making them highly marketable in the industry.

The collaboration also aims to create a flagship project that will attract students from across West Africa and beyond, setting new standards for mining education and industry practices.

"We are committed to making this mine one of the biggest in West Africa and a model for other universities to emulate. This venture is a significant milestone for both UMAT and Rabotech, and we are excited to see it come to fruition" Ali Ibrahim concluded.