The University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) has matriculated 84 students as the third cohort of the “Certificate in Natural Resources Management (CNRM) Programme” for the 2026/2027 academic year. The matriculation ceremony held on Wednesday, 29 July 2026, at the Forestry Commission Training Centre (FCTC), Akyawkrom-Ejisu in the Ashanti Region, formally admitted the students into the University community and marked the beginning of their academic journey in natural resources management.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor of UENR, the Dean, School of Natural Resources, Prof. Daniel Akoto Sarfo welcomed the students into the university community and described the programme as an important step towards developing the skilled workforce needed to address challenges within Ghana’s natural resources sector. He noted that Ghana’s natural resources continue to face threats including illegal logging, illegal mining, wildfires, land degradation, climate change and biodiversity loss. He stressed that addressing these challenges requires professionals with the appropriate technical expertise, discipline, and ethical values.
Prof. Akoto Sarfo explained that the CNRM Programme was structured as a competency based technical training programme that combines theoretical knowledge with extensive practical exposure. He encouraged students to take advantage of lectures, field exercises, mentorship opportunities and emerging technologies such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, drone applications, digital mapping, and environmental data management systems. He further charged faculty members and instructors to ensure that students receive quality training that integrates theory with practice while providing mentorship to shape them into competent and responsible professionals.
The Acting Director of the Forestry Commission Training Centre, Mr. Richard K. Ninoni Esq., explained that the programme was introduced in 2023 as part of efforts to address the shortage of technical personnel required to manage Ghana’s forest and wildlife resources. He revealed that the 2026 admission process attracted 183 applicants, from which 84 students were selected after a rigorous assessment process. He noted that priority was given to applicants with relevant backgrounds, including General Science, Agricultural Science, and Geography.
Mr. Niinoi said the Centre remains committed to producing graduates who are not only academically qualified but also equipped with the professional skills needed to serve effectively in the natural resources sector. He, however, appealed for support towards the provision of a dedicated bus for field practical training and the construction of a hostel facility to enhance student accommodation and supervision.
Speaking on behalf of the matriculants, Mr. Jacob Ayimape Nyeni expressed appreciation to UENR and the Forestry Commission for creating an opportunity for students to acquire specialised training in natural resource management. He described the programme as more than an academic course, noting that it represents an investment in developing professionals who will contribute to the sustainable management of Ghana’s forests, wildlife, and other natural resources.
