UMaT awards honorary doctorate to businessman Ibrahim Mahama

The University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) has awarded an honorary doctorate to businessman and philanthropist Ibrahim Mahama in recognition of his contributions to mining, construction, indigenous enterprise development and national service.

The degree was conferred at UMaT’s 18th Special Congregation, held on Saturday, and attended by university officials, faculty members, graduates, and guests. President John Dramani Mahama was the special guest of honour.

In his acceptance remarks, Ibrahim Mahama said the award reflected what could be achieved through determination, discipline and opportunity beyond formal academic pathways.

“To be conferred with this honorary doctorate is not merely a personal honour; it is a recognition of what is possible when determination meets opportunity, when vision is pursued with unwavering discipline, and when success is shared with those who need it most,” he said.

He described UMaT as a key contributor to Ghana’s mining industry, noting that the university had trained many professionals managing mines in Ghana and across Africa.

Addressing global developments in technology, Mr. Mahama said artificial intelligence (AI) posed both challenges and opportunities for the mining sector, including improving safety, efficiency and efforts to curb illegal mining.

“AI presents profound challenges, but it also unlocks extraordinary opportunities, enhancing safety, improving efficiency, and even helping to combat illegal mining,” the renowned businessman said.

He commended UMaT for establishing an AI Robotics Centre in collaboration with the Ghana Chamber of Mines, describing it as a strategic investment for the future.

Reflecting on his business career, Mr. Mahama said he founded Engineers & Planners (E&P) in 1997, which has since grown into what he described as the largest wholly Ghanaian-owned mining and construction firm in West Africa.

He cited the Black Volta Gold Project as a major milestone, saying it marked the first time a large-scale gold mining asset in Ghana was fully owned and controlled by Ghanaians.

Mahama also spoke about his philanthropic work, which he said was inspired by his late mother, Joyce Tamakloe, and urged young people to pursue discipline, innovation and integrity.

“Do not let anyone tell you that formal education is the only path to greatness. Vision, focus and hard work are what turn dreams into reality,” he said.

He dedicated the honorary doctorate to Ghanaian workers, business partners and communities who had supported his work.

In his remarks, President John Dramani Mahama congratulated Ibrahim Mahama and praised his entrepreneurial drive, saying it had been evident from an early age.

“Even as children, Ibrahim displayed remarkable entrepreneurial instincts, always thinking of ways to create, build and provide,” the president said, adding that it was encouraging to see those instincts translate into contributions to national development.

UMaT also announced the establishment of the Ibrahim Mahama Institute for Sustainable Processing of Precious, Critical and Green Minerals, aimed at promoting sustainable mining practices, environmental stewardship and the development of Ghana’s mineral and green economy sectors.

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