Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum
Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, former Minister of Education and Member of Parliament for Bosomtwe, has appealed to academia to take the lead in the national campaign against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.
Speaking at the 10th graduation ceremony of Christ Apostolic University College (CAUC) in Kwadaso, Kumasi, Dr. Adutwum emphasised the urgent need for the country’s intellectual community to raise its voice and influence national action on environmental degradation.
“The time has come for academia to step forward and lead the charge against galamsey,” he stated.
He continued, “With your knowledge, research, and influence, you have the power to shape policy and stir public awareness.”
Dr. Adutwum noted that illegal mining continues to cause irreversible harm to Ghana’s rivers, forests, and farmlands, and stressed that solutions must be informed by data, research, and strategic thinking – capacities that academia possesses in abundance.
“I urge CAUC and all higher institutions to use your platforms, your research, and your credibility to push for real action. The country depends on you,” he said.
Beyond his call to environmental action, Dr. Adutwum encouraged the graduating class to embody the values and training they received at CAUC.
“Let your education be a force for good. Wherever you find yourself, bring change, uphold integrity, and serve with excellence,” he charged.
Also present was Rev. Prof. Edward Appiah, former Director at the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA), who echoed Dr. Adutwum’s sentiments.
He called on universities to actively model sustainable practices and partner in the national effort to preserve the environment.
“I am deeply encouraged by CAUC’s commitment to environmental stewardship. Their initiatives show that faith-based institutions can lead by example,” Prof. Appiah noted.
He urged government to implement clear policies that support environmental sustainability and ensure accountability across sectors.
President of CAUC, Prof. Geoffrey Emi-Reynolds, expressed gratitude to the church for its unwavering support and highlighted the institution’s resilience despite financial constraints.
In all, 253 students graduated, with 44 earning bachelor’s degrees, 71 receiving diplomas, and 38 awarded certificates. Among them were 32 First Class graduates and 78 with Second Class Upper honours.
Prof. Emi-Reynolds reaffirmed CAUC’s commitment to holistic education—one that goes beyond academics to include moral and environmental consciousness.
A Daily Guide Report