On Thursday, March 21, 2024, the Department of Forest Science launched the Forestry Students Association of the University of Energy and Natural Resources -(FORSA). Held in conjunction with International Forestry Day, the Association aims to mobilize its members to promote and advance research in the areas of forestry preservation, planting of tree species, and the protection of other natural resources.
In his speech, the Dean of the School of Natural Resources and Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Berchie Asiedu commended the students who have spearheaded the formation of the Association. He also lauded the passion of the pioneer Executives for the bold steps taken to lead the Association. Prof. Berchie also said the SoNR is poised to promote the protection of natural resources as mandated in the University’s vision. He urged members of the association to be ambassadors for the planet’s protection.
Prof. Berchie Asiedu
The programme was graced by the presence of the Ag. Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. John K. M. Kuwornu. Addressing the gathering, he mentioned that UENR is well-positioned to advance research in the areas of natural resources and other scientific disciplines. He added that the theme for the celebration “Forestry and Innovation; New Solution for a Better World”, propels the University to find more solutions to environmental issues adding that the launch of the association demonstrates the zeal to protect the planet. He further assured them of management’s support in their activities.
Ag. Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. John K. M. Kuwornu
Giving the Keynote Address, Mr. Abban Kofi Bonsu, the Area Manager of the Timber Industry Development Division (TIDD) of the Forestry Commission, was pleased with the initiative to establish an association of forestry. He delivered his speech on battling the timber trade, and the role of technology where he disclosed that according to the African Centre for Strategic Studies, African countries are estimated to lose $17 billion to illegal logging of trees annually. This, he said is a challenge for all foresters to address.
Mr. Abban Kofi Bonsu, the Area Manager of the Timber Industry Development Division (TIDD)
Mr. Bonsu however, outlined strategies for addressing the problem which were enactment of laws, policies, regulations, and conventions while stressing that enforcement of these strategies is the only way to achieve results. He also disclosed that the Commission has developed a digital verification method for timber supply chain that has improved on the paper-based systems involving licenses, certificates, and property marks among others.
The Executives of the Association under the Leadership of the President, Mr. Gyamfi Selassie Kesse were sworn into office. In his speech, the President expressed appreciation to the School’s management for their unflinching support and encouraged his colleagues to join in making the vision of the Association a reality.
President of FORSA, Mr. Gyamfi Selassie Kesse
The occasion which also saw tree planting exercise was well attended by staff of the Forestry Commission, staff and students at the School of Natural Resources, and the Department of Forest Science headed by Dr. Daniel Akoto. Prof. Simon Abgure, an Associate Professor at SoNR and Dean of Students was also in attendance.
