Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has urged graduates to reject the notion of the “lone innovator” as they transition into the world of work.

She stressed that today’s challenges demand collaboration rather than individual brilliance.

She said the problems confronting society are complex and interconnected, requiring partnerships across disciplines, sectors and communities to achieve sustainable solutions.

“Progress will come from shared intelligence across disciplines, sectors and communities,” the Vice President noted, adding that collaboration should not be seen as a compromise but as a strength.

Addressing graduands at the 10th congregation of the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) at the Bank of Ghana Auditorium in Sunyani, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang acknowledged that the world of work presents its own adversities. She therefore advised the graduates to let integrity guide their actions while confronting challenges with courage and creativity.

As Ghana’s first female Vice President, she reiterated the government’s recognition of the critical role of science, technology and innovation in national development.

“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 noted that the success of these policies would depend largely on the ingenuity and commitment of graduates, researchers and entrepreneurs.

She therefore encouraged industry partners and stakeholders in government to deepen engagement with UENR, invest in research, support incubators, and develop clear pathways for promising technologies to reach markets and communities, while government continues to provide enabling policies and infrastructure.

Congratulating the Class of 2025, the Vice President urged them to move forward with confidence, design sustainable energy systems, manage natural resources responsibly, inform policy, and build businesses that generate jobs while protecting the environment.

In his address, the Vice Chancellor (VC) of UENR, Prof. Elvis Asare-Bediako, disclosed that a total of 2,336 students were presented for awards. These included 16 Doctor of Philosophy graduates, 218 master’s degree holders, 1,867 Bachelor of Science graduates and 235 diploma awardees.

Out of the 2,102 undergraduate students, he said 721 (34 per cent) were females.

The ceremony, attended by parents, lecturers and government officials, was held under the theme: “Embracing Excellence in Innovation for an Impactful Sustainable Future: The Technologians’ Perspective.”

Prof. Asare-Bediako described the graduands, whom he referred to as “Technologians,” as skilled, tested and ready for industry, government, research and entrepreneurship. He urged them to be confident and compassionate, and to build systems that are robust, inclusive and regenerative.

“Remember, your work will be judged by its consequences,” he stressed, adding that lasting impact can only be achieved through excellence, innovation and sustainability. He further encouraged the graduates to build strong bridges between knowledge and practice.

The Chairman of the University Council and Dormaahene, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu II, also charged the graduates to remember that true excellence is not measured by titles or accolades, but by the impact made in the lives of others.

“Let integrity be your compass, innovation your tool, and service your legacy,” he admonished, urging them to be bold in their aspirations, resilient in the face of challenges, and unwavering in their commitment to building a sustainable, inclusive and just future.

The Dormaahene, who is also President of the Bono Regional House of Chiefs, announced the institution of an award scheme in honour of the late former President, Prof. John Evans Atta Mills, in recognition of his role in the establishment of UENR.

The maiden award was presented to the 2025 valedictorian, Ms Jennifer Addae. The BSc Chemistry graduate, who obtained a final GPA of 3.95, received a salon car as her prize from Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu II.