UMaT confers honorary doctorate on Ibrahim Mahama

The University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) has conferred an honorary doctorate degree on renowned Ghanaian businessman and philanthropist Ibrahim Mahama, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to mining, construction, indigenous enterprise development, and national service.

The honorary degree was presented at the 18th Special Congregation of the University on Saturday, January 31, 2026, attended by officials, faculty members, graduates, and invited guests. President John Dramani Mahama was the special guest of honour at the event.

In his acceptance speech, Ibrahim Mahama expressed deep gratitude to UMaT, describing the honour as recognition of what determination, discipline, and opportunity can achieve outside the traditional academic pathway.

“To be conferred with this honorary doctorate degree is not merely a personal honour; it is a recognition of what is possible when determination meets opportunity, when vision is pursued with unwavering discipline, and when success is shared with those who need it most,” he said.

He thanked the University for acknowledging a non-traditional educational journey and praised UMaT for its impact on Ghana’s mining sector.

“UMaT has long been a beacon of excellence in mining education, producing the majority of the men and women who manage mines not only in Ghana but across Africa,” Ibrahim Mahama stated.

He noted that the institution’s legacy of practical and impactful education has elevated Ghana’s standing on the global stage.

Addressing emerging global trends, the founder of Engineers & Planners highlighted the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on education and industry, urging universities to adapt to the changing landscape.

“AI presents profound challenges, but it also unlocks extraordinary opportunities, enhancing safety, improving efficiency, and even helping to combat illegal mining,” he noted.

He commended UMaT for its forward-looking initiatives, particularly the establishment of an AI Robotics Centre in partnership with the Ghana Chamber of Mines, describing it as a strategic investment in preparing graduates for an AI-driven future in mining and engineering.

Reflecting on his entrepreneurial journey, Ibrahim Mahama recounted how he founded Engineers & Planners in 1997, which has since grown into the largest wholly Ghanaian-owned mining and construction firm in West Africa.

“What began as a small indigenous company has, through hard work and the dedication of Ghanaians, grown into a business that employs thousands and contributes significantly to national development,” he shared.

He also highlighted the acquisition of the Black Volta Gold Project, describing it as a landmark achievement for indigenous ownership in Ghana’s extractive sector.

“For the first time, a large-scale gold mining asset in Ghana is 100 per cent owned and controlled by Ghanaians. This is a statement that we can lead in capital-intensive industries once dominated by others,” Mahama stressed.

Beyond business, he reaffirmed his commitment to philanthropy, inspired by his late mother, Joyce Tamakloe.

“True wealth is measured by what we give away, by the lives we touch, and the opportunities we create for others,” he said.

Ibrahim Mahama urged young people and graduates to embrace discipline, innovation, and integrity, encouraging them not to be constrained by conventional definitions of success.

“Do not let anyone tell you that formal education is the only path to greatness. Vision, focus, and hard work are what turn dreams into reality,” he advised.

He dedicated the honorary doctorate to Ghanaian workers, partners, and communities who have supported his journey and pledged to continue contributing to Ghana’s development.

In his remarks, President John Dramani Mahama congratulated Ibrahim Mahama on the conferment and shared a story from their childhood, highlighting the different paths that shaped their skills.

“Even as children, Ibrahim displayed remarkable entrepreneurial instincts, always thinking of ways to create, build, and provide,” the President said.

“I, on the other hand, have always been drawn to speaking and persuasion. It is inspiring to see how Ibrahim has turned his early entrepreneurial spark into a force for national development,” President Mahama added.

In honour of his contributions, UMaT has also established the Ibrahim Mahama Institute for Precious and Green Ghana, a specialised institute aimed at promoting sustainable mining practices, environmental stewardship, and the development of Ghana’s mineral and green economy sectors.

SB/MA

Watch GhanaWeb’s live coverage of 2026 NPP presidential primary