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The University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) has conferred an honorary doctorate degree on Ghanaian businessman and philanthropist Mr. Ibrahim Mahama in recognition of his outstanding contributions to mining, construction, indigenous enterprise development and national service.
The honour was bestowed at UMaT’s 18th Special Congregation held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, in Tarkwa. The ceremony was attended by university officials, faculty, graduating students, traditional authorities and invited guests, with President John Dramani Mahama serving as the special guest of honour.
In his acceptance speech, Mr. Ibrahim Mahama expressed profound gratitude to the university, describing the award as a testament to what determination, discipline and opportunity can achieve beyond conventional academic pathways.
“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 praised UMaT for its pivotal role in Ghana’s mining industry, noting that the institution has produced professionals who manage mining operations not only in Ghana but across the African continent. Mr. Mahama also highlighted the growing influence of artificial intelligence in the sector, describing it as both a challenge and an opportunity.
According to him, artificial intelligence has the potential to enhance safety, improve operational efficiency and assist in the fight against illegal mining. He commended UMaT’s Artificial Intelligence Robotics Centre, established in partnership with the Ghana Chamber of Mines, describing it as a strategic investment in an AI-driven future.
Reflecting on his entrepreneurial journey, Mr. Mahama recounted founding Engineers & Planners in 1997, which has since grown into the largest wholly Ghanaian-owned mining and construction company in West Africa, employing thousands and contributing significantly to national development.
He also highlighted the Black Volta Gold Project as a landmark achievement, noting that it represents the first time a large-scale gold mining asset in Ghana is fully owned and controlled by Ghanaians.
Beyond business, Mr. Mahama reaffirmed his commitment to philanthropy, inspired by his late mother, Madam Joyce Tamakloe. He urged young people and graduates to embrace discipline, innovation and integrity, stressing that formal education, while important, is not the only path to success.
President John Dramani Mahama, in his remarks, congratulated Mr. Ibrahim Mahama and praised his entrepreneurial instincts, recalling that his business acumen was evident from an early age.
In recognition of his contributions, UMaT announced the establishment of the Ibrahim Mahama Institute for Precious and Green Ghana, aimed at promoting sustainable mining, environmental stewardship and the development of Ghana’s mineral and green economy sectors.
Mr. Ibrahim Mahama dedicated the honorary doctorate to Ghanaian workers, partners and communities whose support, he said, has been central to his journey.
Rafiq Adam
