The University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD) held its 5th Commencement Lecture on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at the University’s Multipurpose Auditorium. This annual event marks the official opening of the new academic year. This year’s lecture, themed “Forests for the Future: Strategies for Addressing Climate Change, Biodiversity Loss, and Sustainable Development in Ghana,” was graced by distinguished guests, including the newly sworn-in Eastern Regional Minister, Mrs. Rita Akua Adjei Awatey, as well as the University’s partners, policy experts, clergy, representatives of Civil Society Organisations (CSO), and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs).
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Seth Appiah Kubi, National Director of A Rocha Ghana, an NGO focused on training and developing sustainable strategies to protect Ghana’s environment.
Climate Change and Environmental Decline
Speaking on the theme, Dr. Appiah Kubi stated that the burden of environmental degradation and biodiversity loss is felt by everyone, regardless of social status. He highlighted that climate change and environmental destruction directly impact global efforts to eradicate poverty. He explained that resources that could have been allocated solely to poverty reduction are now being redirected to address climate change and global warming—both of which are consequences of mankind’s indiscriminate treatment of the environment.
Dr. Appiah Kubi warned that failure to act against climate change could lead to the loss of all the benefits forests provide, including food, medicine, raw materials, and a sense of peace and stability. He stressed the importance of placing a high value on environmental management and sustainability efforts.
To effectively combat climate change and global warming, the Environmentalist urged nations to reaffirm their commitment to implementing strategies that yield tangible results. He also emphasized the need for countries to enhance their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to meet their climate action obligations.
Biodiversity Loss: Dr. Appiah Kubi pointed to extensive research indicating a significant global decline in species diversity, genetic variability, and biological communities, a trend that is also evident in Ghana. He explained that this biodiversity loss is leading to the breakdown of ecosystems, which poses a serious threat to environmental stability.
He further emphasised the crucial role of forest conservation in addressing these challenges, calling for strategic measures to mitigate biodiversity loss. He stressed the need for sustainable forest management to ensure environmental resilience and protection.
Sustainable Solution: Discussing solutions, Dr. Appiah Kubi stated that Ghana’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 requires the country to adopt robust biodiversity frameworks, embrace eco-friendly technologies, and promote the efficient management of natural resources.
He commended UESD as a unique institution established to train the next generation of environmental advocates and researchers, equipping them with the expertise to lead initiatives that protect the environment from irreversible destruction. He urged lecturers and researchers to continue exploring the social, cultural, and economic dimensions of climate change and biodiversity loss, as a holistic approach is essential for achieving long-term environmental sustainability.
Eastern Regional Minister’s Comments: The Eastern Regional Minister, Hon. Mrs. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, who was recently sworn in, affirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD), Somanya to achieve its intended purpose. She stated that her office would work closely with the relevant authorities to ensure the timely completion of stalled projects on campus to enhance teaching, research, and community engagement She pledged to collaborate closely with the University’s Management, traditional authorities, and development partners to secure additional resources, foster academic excellence, and expand opportunities for students and faculty.
Remarks from the Vice-Chancellor: The event’s chairman, Prof. Eric Nyarko Sampson, Vice-Chancellor of UESD, reaffirmed the University’s commitment to fulfilling its mandate as outlined in its founding statute. He applauded the dedication of students and staff, emphasising their crucial role in advancing environmental protection through training, research, and community engagement.
Goodwill Messages: In a goodwill message, the Deputy Director and Head of Public Traditional Universities (Programme Accreditation), of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), Dr. Evans Kwabena Takyi Ankomah-Asare, encouraged students to remain steadfast in their advocacy for sustainability. He urged them to continue contributing in their own ways, as even small efforts can significantly impact the future of the nation. He emphasised the need to strive for a world where sustainability is not just an aspiration but a realisable reality. The Ghana National Fire Service, also delivered a goodwill message.