Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has urged graduates of the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) to pursue innovation anchored in purpose, integrity and collaboration to help drive Ghana’s development.

She made the call when she addressed the 10th Congregation Ceremony of UENR in Sunyani, attended by traditional authorities, university officials, parents and graduating students.

The ceremony was graced by the Paramount Chief of the Dormaa Traditional Area and Chairman of the University Council, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyeman Badu II, members of the Governing Council, management and faculty of the University.

Delivering her address, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang stressed that while technical competence is critical in today’s world, it must be complemented by purpose-driven innovation.

She noted that experimentation and even failure are essential elements of scientific and technological progress, urging graduates to remain disciplined and resilient in their pursuits.

The Vice President emphasised the need for technologies that respond to Ghana’s unique development needs, describing innovation as most impactful when it is affordable, accessible, sustainable and capable of addressing everyday challenges.

She further highlighted collaboration as a key driver of meaningful innovation, calling for stronger linkages across academic disciplines, institutions, industry and communities.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang paid tribute to the University’s founding leadership and acknowledged the contributions of academic staff, administrators and traditional authorities for their roles in the growth of UENR.

She also commended faculty and researchers for advancing knowledge and innovation, and expressed appreciation to parents and guardians for their sacrifices in supporting the education of their wards.

She called on political leaders, private investors and industry players to deepen their engagement with the University, noting that although government remains committed to creating an enabling policy environment, policies alone are insufficient to drive development.

According to her, strong institutions, strategic partnerships and sustained investment are necessary to translate ideas into national progress.

In her closing remarks, the Vice President urged the graduating class to allow integrity to guide their professional lives, encouraging them to remain curious, disciplined and committed to excellence.

She reminded them that Ghana’s future depends on their ideas, energy and willingness to work together for the common good.