Professor Bernard Kumi-Boateng Appointed Vice Chancellor of the University of Mines and Technology.
The Council of the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) has appointed Professor Bernard Kumi-Boateng as the new Vice Chancellor of the University, following its 98th Emergency Meeting held on April 13, 2026, at Fiesta Royale Hotel in Accra. His appointment takes effect from August 1, 2026.
A New Era of Leadership at UMaT
Professor Kumi-Boateng, a seasoned academic and administrator, currently serves as Dean of the Faculty of Geosciences and Environmental Studies and Professor of Geomatic Engineering in the Department of Geomatic Engineering at UMaT. He is widely respected for his leadership in higher education, research excellence, and strong collaboration with industry partners.
He has built a reputation for fostering strategic links between academia and industry, positioning UMaT as a key contributor to national and international development in geosciences and engineering.
Academic and International Experience
Over the years, Professor Kumi-Boateng has held several international academic roles, including:
- External Moderator at the University of Nairobi, Kenya
- Visiting Professor at the University of The Gambia
- External Examiner at the International Institute for Geo-information Science and Earth Observation (ITC), Netherlands
He has also contributed significantly to academic quality assurance and governance, including serving on the Ghana National Committee of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and participating in international examination and assessment committees.
Contributions to Education and Research Development
His academic influence extends across Africa and beyond. He has worked on World Bank–sponsored initiatives aimed at benchmarking African universities and has contributed to the development of Competency-Based Training (CBT) curricula in Ghana.
He also supported national curriculum development projects under GIZ in areas such as Recycling Technology and Building Construction, helping shape occupational standards and assessment frameworks.
Leadership Roles at UMaT
A proud alumnus of UMaT, Professor Kumi-Boateng is the institution’s first internally trained professor to rise to such a high academic rank. He is also the youngest full professor in the university.
His leadership experience within UMaT includes:
- Dean of Planning and Quality Assurance
- Dean of Students
- Vice Dean of Students
- Vice Dean of International Programmes
- Head of multiple academic departments
- Senior Hall Tutor and Examinations Officer
- Service on over 200 committees
Research, Consultancy, and Industry Impact
Professor Kumi-Boateng’s expertise spans:
- Project and Environmental Management
- Cadastral and Drone Surveys
- Socio-economic Impact Assessment
- Sustainable Community Development
- Urban Mining (E-Waste)
Since 2007, he and his collaborators have secured research and consultancy projects worth over GH¢444 million, reflecting strong industry confidence in his work.
He has also engaged with major institutions such as the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, AngloGold Ashanti, GIZ, and international development organizations.
Professional Affiliations
He is a Fellow or member of several prestigious professional bodies, including:
- Ghana Institution of Surveyors (GhIS)
- Ghana Institution of Engineers (GhIE)
- West African Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (WAIMM)
- International Association of Engineers (IAENG)
- American Society of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS)
- African Association of Remote Sensing of the Environment (AARSE)
Academic Journey and Personal Background
Born on June 15, 1978, in Bantama, Kumasi, Professor Kumi-Boateng’s academic journey began at St. Anthony’s Primary/JSS and continued through Tamale Secondary School. He later enrolled at the then KNUST School of Mines, Tarkwa (now UMaT), where he earned:
- BSc in Geomatic Engineering (2004)
- MSc in Geo-Information Sciences and Environmental Systems (2007)
- PhD in Geomatic Engineering (2012)
He joined UMaT as a Lecturer in 2007 and rose through the ranks to become Professor in 2020.
Personal Life and Values
Professor Kumi-Boateng is married to Mrs. Harriet Kumi-Boateng and has two children. He is a devout Christian and an Elder of The Church of Pentecost, actively worshipping at the Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC), Tarkwa.
Conclusion
His appointment marks a significant milestone in the leadership journey of University of Mines and Technology, signaling a continued focus on academic excellence, research innovation, and stronger industry partnerships under his leadership.