The Department of Renewable Energy Technology at Cape Coast Technical University, on Monday, January 26, 2026, marked International Day for Clean Energy with a compelling one-day seminar themed "On the Road to Green Energy Transition: The state of Ghana.”

The seminar, which was a clarion call for innovation, professional development, and institutional leadership in Ghana's green energy transition, was chaired by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kwaku Adutwum Ayim Boakye.

In a welcome address, Prof. Eric Awere, the Dean of the School of Engineering, emphasised the timeliness of the theme, noting that Ghana stood at a critical crossroads in its energy journey where the challenges and opportunities aligned with global efforts toward sustainable development.

He underscored the urgency of the energy transition, reminding the audience that the nation's energy sector was under pressure and that the path forward required a collective commitment to clean, sustainable solutions.

Setting an ambitious tone for the Department's future, the Vice-Chancellor delivered remarks that resonated with challenge and promise. "The Department should grow to the extent that when you think CCTU, you think Renewable Energy, our niche area," he declared, announcing that Management had apportioned Fifty Thousand Ghana Cedis (GH¢50,000) to support the Department's renewable energy activities.

He proposed an innovative incentive, pledging to return Thirty Thousand Ghana Cedis (GH¢30,000) to the Department if it could help achieve a 30% reduction in the University's recent One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Ghana Cedis (GH¢150,000) electricity bill.

Prof. Boakye also expressed his vision for local innovation to replace imported electrical appliances, calling for the organisation of a grand innovation fair featuring mind-blowing technology that could attract both local and international attention, adding that with the available resources and leadership, there was no doubt that all these goals could come to fruition.

The first session featured Engr. Shadrach Ofori Yeboah, Deputy Technical Manager at HPW Fresh & Dry Ltd., as the Guest Speaker who delivered an inspiring talk titled "Energise Your Future: Career Development in Renewable Energy."

Engr. Yeboah debunked the misconception that classroom learning differed fundamentally from workplace practice, emphasising the strong connection between academic knowledge and industry requirements.

He outlined global and Ghanaian energy trends, highlighting the rapid growth in renewable energy, the shift toward decentralised energy systems and mini-grids, and the increasing demand for multi-skilled renewable energy engineers in design, installation, and management roles. He also urged students to proactively enhance their skills beyond formal education and obtain professional certifications.

Following a question-and-answer session, the second part of the seminar commenced, where some alumni shared their experiences after completion of their programmes of study. Mr. Oliver Abakah, an alumnus and a Water Treatment Operator at HPW Fresh & Dry Ltd., shared practical applications of renewable energy in water treatment.

Also, Mr. Emmanuel Mensah, who is pursuing an MSc at Jiangsu University, China, and Eng. Peter K. Saah, an MPhil candidate at the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) (who are alumni), discussed opportunities for further education, international collaborations, and research pathways. The interactive sessions allowed students to engage directly with alumni about career transitions, job market realities, and strategies for professional growth.

The event, organised under the auspices of the Renewable Energy Students’ Association (RESA), concluded with closing remarks from the Chairperson, Prof. Kwaku Adutwum Ayim Boakye, highlighting CCTU’s commitment to positioning itself as a centre of excellence in renewable energy education and innovation.

Source: Directorate of Public Affairs