Metso Signs MoU with the University of Energy and Natural Resources, Strengthening Local Capacity Development Efforts
Metso and UENR join forces to boost technical skills and practical learning for engineering and mining students in Ghana
- Metso signs an MoU with the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) to strengthen local capacity development in mining and engineering
- The agreement includes collaborative research, technical seminars, internships
- The partnership empowers students, providing mentorship, practical experience
Metso, a global leader in sustainable technologies, equipment, and services for aggregates, mineral processing, and metals refining, continues to demonstrate its dedication to responsible mining and long-term talent development in West Africa.
On Wednesday, 25th February 2026, the organization in Ghana reaffirmed its commitment to fostering strong ties between industry and academia with a formal visit to the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) in Sunyani, Ghana.
Located within the broader community serving one of Metso’s key customers, Newmont Ahafo, the visit concluded with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at building technical capacity and expanding practical learning opportunities for mining and other engineering students.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dr. Enoch Kusi‑Yeboah, Vice President – West Africa, highlighted the significance of this partnership in advancing regional talent development:
“Metsonites have a deep sense of purpose and a commitment, as part of their corporate social responsibility, to seeing this come to fruition. This collaboration is part of our continuous effort to bridge the gap between academia and industry. We have done this before with UMaT in Tarkwa, and today’s agreement with UENR reinforces our commitment to supporting young engineers and future industry leaders.”
He further emphasized the current landscape across the subregion:
“West African countries are becoming more assertive about resource nationalism, and this is understandable. But the pace of local capacity development must match these aspirations. At Metso, we believe strongly that building partnerships like this is one of the most effective ways to prepare the next generation for the future.”
The agreement covers collaborative research, hands-on training, technical seminars, and student exposure to advanced mineral processing technologies. It also creates pathways for students to engage directly with Metso professionals through internships and practical projects.
Prof. Elvis Asare-Bediako, Vice-Chancellor of UENR, expressed gratitude for the partnership:
“This partnership aligns perfectly with my vision for UENR – to build a university that not only teaches but actively collaborates with industry to shape national development. We are fully committed to seeing this relationship flourish.”
He also thanked Dr. Abdul-Wadood Moomen for his resilience in forging a stronger relationship with Metso over the past two years and bringing this initiative to fruition.
There was palpable excitement among the students. Attendees came from the School of Mines and Built Environment, School of Engineering, and School of Energy. Many students voiced enthusiasm about the opportunities the partnership brings.
“We study mineral processing in class, but seeing the possibility of working directly with a global leader like Metso makes everything feel more real. It motivates us,” said Enoch, a third-year Environmental Engineering student.
Another student, Patricia Serwaa, a second-year BSc Sustainable Mining Engineering student, added:
“For us, this MoU is more than an agreement – it’s exposure. It’s a chance to understand how the theories we learn are applied in large-scale mining operations. I’m excited about the training and mentorship opportunities.”
A final-year Mechanical Engineering student, Christabel, who has experienced Metso equipment during her attachment in a local mine, noted:
“Local capacity is built through experiences, not just lectures. With Metso coming on board, we feel seen, we feel empowered, and we feel part of something bigger.”
Metso, which launched its strategy dubbed “We Go Beyond”, focuses on Growth, Excellence, and Metso #1, underpinned by sustainability and profitability.
The event concluded with a tour of UENR’s engineering laboratories and discussions on immediate next steps to implement the MoU. Both institutions look forward to a collaboration that will open new doors for students and contribute meaningfully to the growth of Ghana’s mining and energy sectors.
