By Robert Tachie Menson, GNA
Kyeremasu (Bono), Oct. 22, GNA – Mr Joseph Addae Akwaboa, Bono Regional Minister, has commended the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) for its significant contributions to the growth and development of the Bono Region.
He particularly praised the university’s partnership with the Chinese National Research Centre for Geo-analysis, noting that findings from a recent joint study conducted in the Dormaa Municipality had provided valuable insights into public health and environmental concerns.
According to the Regional Minister, the research exposed toxicant exposure in some communities within the municipality, providing critical information to support interventions and policy decisions.
Mr Akwaboa encouraged the university to undertake more research to help identify and address emerging challenges in local communities while contributing to evidence-based policy formulation and implementation.
The commendation was contained in a speech delivered on his behalf by Mr Dominic Adomah Ameyaw, Dormaa Central Municipal Chief Executive, at a symposium organised by the Department of Geological Sciences of the UENR to mark World Geodiversity Day at Kyeremasu in the Dormaa East District.
The event was on the theme: “Geoscience for sustainable development: Uncovering environmental risks, protecting public health.”
Mr Akwaboa noted that the Bono region was endowed with fertile lands, forests and water bodies, but warned that these resources were increasingly under threat from environmental challenges, including deforestation, illegal mining, poor sanitation, plastic pollution and the indiscriminate use of agrochemicals.
He called for collective action to combat environmental degradation and related crimes and urged residents to support the Government’s Blue Water Guards initiative aimed at protecting natural resources.
The Regional Minister also highlighted the need to equip young people with employable skills and create sustainable employment opportunities for them.
He therefore urged the university to continue supporting efforts to create jobs for the youth through research, innovation, and skills development.
Mr Akwaboa stressed that development planning must be guided by research and evidence and encouraged the university to intensify its research activities to support national and regional development.
GNA
Edited by Dennis Peprah/ Lydia Kukua Asamoah
Reporter: Robert Tachie Menson