The University of Mines and Technology (UMaT), Tarkwa, has received a significant boost to its educational infrastructure with the commissioning of the AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Smart Systems Centre.
The state-of-the-art Centre of Excellence is equipped with high-performance computing infrastructure, robotics laboratories, and advanced digital software, providing students and researchers with hands-on experience in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, big data analytics, and real-time operational modelling.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Managing Director of AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine, Daniel Boadi, said the mining industry is undergoing a profound digital transformation driven by artificial intelligence, robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT), smart sensors, and advanced data analytics.
He noted that these technologies are making mining operations safer, more efficient, and environmentally sustainable, stressing that industry leaders have a responsibility not only to adopt emerging technologies but also to invest in developing the next generation of innovators.
“We must invest in the minds that will build, advance, and master these technologies. That vision lies at the heart of our US$750,000 investment in this fully resourced Smart Systems Centre. Crucially, this investment is about developing homegrown Ghanaian talent. We want local experts who can design smart mining solutions right here in Ghana, reducing reliance on external technology and positioning the country as a regional leader in mining innovation,” he said.
Mr. Boadi revealed that the Centre has already begun producing results during its pilot phase.
According to him, UMaT students successfully designed and built two functional drones using locally fabricated materials, while another team developed a prototype sanitary pad vending machine, which will soon be presented to AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine.
He encouraged students to fully utilise the facility to develop innovative solutions to real-world challenges.
“To the students of UMaT, this Centre is yours. Use it, challenge assumptions, test bold ideas, and engineer solutions that solve real-world problems. Let this room become the birthplace of innovations that will serve not only Ghana’s mining industry but society as a whole.”
The Pro Vice-Chancellor of UMaT, Professor Grace Ofori-Sarpong, described the Centre as a clear demonstration of AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine’s commitment to investing in human capital.
She said the partnership extends beyond infrastructure, focusing on empowering Ghanaian youth with the skills and opportunities to become future innovators and industry leaders.
Professor Ofori-Sarpong further highlighted five key benefits the Centre will deliver: safer and smarter mining operations, the training of local talent in AI, robotics and data science, improved mine safety and environmental monitoring, the creation of mining technology startups and jobs, and the promotion of sustainable mining practices that meet global standards.
Also speaking at the event, the Western Regional Head of the Minerals Commission, Francis Annobil Jnr., said the initiative aligns with the Commission’s commitment to promoting modern, efficient and safe mining practices across Ghana.
He noted that the integration of smart technologies into mining operations will improve productivity, increase operational efficiency, reduce costs, and minimise environmental impacts.
Mr. Annobil added that robotics and artificial intelligence have the potential to significantly reduce hazardous operations in the mining sector.
“The Commission recognises the immense potential of robotics and AI in undertaking hazardous mining activities, including drilling, blasting, and remote monitoring. The deployment of these technologies will significantly improve occupational health and safety by reducing human exposure to high-risk environments,” he stated.
