The University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD), Somanya in the Eastern Region and the Africa Environmental Sanitation Consult (AFESC), the research and consulting arm of the Jospong Group of Companies, have entered into a partnership to collaborate in areas of mutual interest.The partnership was formalised with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) by both parties in the Council Chamber of the University, with representatives from both sides in attendance.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Eric Nyarko-Sampson, signed on behalf of UESD, while the Executive Director of AFESC, Dr. Abena Asomaning Antwi, signed for her organisation.
Under the MoU, UESD students will gain internship opportunities across Jospong Group’s various facilities, particularly in areas of waste management. This will allow students hands-on experience in state-of-the-art facilities, including Jospong’s advanced liquid and solid waste treatment plants. AFESC also expressed interest in bringing industry experts to UESD as guest lecturers, participating in mentorship programmes, and collaborating on research initiatives that would benefit both institutions.
Commenting on the partnership, Prof. Nyarko-Sampson welcomed it as a unique opportunity to bridge academia and industry. He emphasised that the collaboration aligns with UESD’s mission to produce graduates who not only excel academically but also contribute to sustainable solutions that positively impact communities and the environment.
He further discussed ongoing efforts with UESD’s BSc. Water Resources programme, which includes consultations with water-related organisations such as the Water Research Institute, Volta River Authority (VRA), and Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL). He highlighted that these collaborations aim to provide students with comprehensive training to effectively address challenges in water resource management. Prof. Nyarko-Sampson also touched on the University’s achievements with the Community-Based Experiential Learning Programme (COBEL) and its impact on both the University and its surrounding communities.
The Executive Director of AFESC, Dr. Asomaning Antwi, shared her company’s interest in collaborating on research projects and mentioned plans to establish a lab for sample testing. She highlighted ongoing work in communities within the Eastern Region, specifically Amanokrom and Mamfe, where pilot projects are set to begin. She outlined Jospong’s extensive involvement in sectors ranging from waste management and environmental sustainability to agriculture, which align with UESD’s sustainability missioned. Dr. Asomaning Antwi also expressed interest in developing special programmes designed to meet the educational and professional development needs of Jospong’s workforce, particularly in areas related to environmental sustainability.
Also in attendance were the Pro-Vice Chancellor, Prof. Edward Wiafe; the Registrar, Mrs. Mary Abena Agyepong; the Acting Dean of the School of Natural and Environmental Sciences (SNES), Dr. Shine Gbedemah; and representatives from AFESC.