The University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) has organised a comprehensive orientation programme for freshers of the 2026/2027 academic year. Held from 20th – 23rd October 2026, the orientation aimed at equipping first year students with essential knowledge and guidance to navigate academic, social and personal life at the University.
A major focus of the orientation was academic success and the standards expected of students. The Director of Quality Assurance and Academic Planning, Professor Jonas Akurugu, assured freshers that programmes offered by UENR are accredited by the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) and are subject to continuous quality improvement. He encouraged students to take their academic work seriously from Level 100, stressing the importance of attending lectures, participating actively in study groups and seeking clarification whenever they encountered difficulties with their courses.
Students were also cautioned against academic malpractice and corruption. They were informed that lecturers are not permitted to compel students to purchase handouts or books and that continuous assessment marks cannot be bought from Teaching Assistants.
The orientation further introduced students to the University’s library resources, including digital research tools, online access to electronic books and journals, citation management support, past examination papers and thesis samples. Representing the University Librarian, Madam Pearl Owusu Amankwah encouraged students to make effective use of the University’s library facilities and digital resources to support their studies.
The wellbeing and safety of students also featured prominently during the orientation. Representing the Guidance and Counselling Centre, Ms. Cindy Awuah Pokuaa reminded freshers that the transition to university could bring both opportunities and pressures and encouraged them to seek professional support whenever necessary. Students were introduced to the Centre’s confidential counselling services, which include academic, individual, group, stress management, time management and relationship counselling.
The University also assured students of its commitment to providing a safe and supportive learning environment, with concerns relating to harassment or inappropriate conduct by staff subject to investigation and appropriate action. Head of Security, Mr. Abdulai Zakaria urged students to regard security as a shared responsibility. He advised students to exercise caution, particularly when moving around campus at night, use designated transport points and comply with university safety regulations. Students were also reminded of the University’s restrictions on illicit drugs, property damage, unauthorised removal of lecture hall furniture and the production or distribution of pornographic materials.
Representing the Directorate, Mr. Frederick Afriyie Adjapong emphasised that payment of fees alone does not complete the student registration process and urged freshers to complete their online course registration. He also encouraged students to protect their portal credentials and make use of the IT Helpdesk when they encounter challenges. Students were introduced to the university wifi and other digital resources available to support their academic work.
Director of University Health Services, Dr. Solomon Fofie, encouraged freshers to avoid self-medication and make appropriate use of the University Clinic. He also introduced students to the Patient Charter and explained their rights and responsibilities as users of health services. Students were informed about the mandatory medical screening for Level 100 students, which includes physical examinations and specified medical tests. They were also encouraged to disclose relevant pre-existing health conditions to enable appropriate support while maintaining medical confidentiality.
The Sports Directorate highlighted UENR’s achievements in university sports and encouraged students with sporting talents to take advantage of opportunities available through the University. Students were informed that participation in university sports teams could provide access to tuition and accommodation support, subject to the applicable requirements.
Beyond academic and administrative matters, the orientation introduced freshers to the University’s residential, spiritual and student leadership structures. Leaders of University Hall 1 and Hall 2 introduced students to their respective hall cultures, traditions and activities, while encouraging them to participate actively in student life.
The University Chaplain, Rev. Dr. Benjamin Asamoah, outlined the approved structures for student religious activities and encouraged students to participate in recognised campus faith communities while adhering to university regulations.
Student leadership was also represented by the Students’ Representative Council and the local National Union of Ghana Students, which encouraged freshers to take advantage of welfare, scholarship and student support initiatives. The SRC President, Mr. Vincent Opoku, urged students to remain focused on their academic goals, build meaningful networks and engage student leadership on issues affecting their welfare.
Throughout the orientation, students were reminded of the University’s philosophy, “UENR is Home,” which emphasises a supportive and student-centred university community.
