GCTU, in collaboration with the Australian High Commission in Ghana, has hosted a symposium on sustainable clean energy on March 27, 2025.
The event, which was organized by the Faculty of Computing and Information Systems (FoCIS) on the theme, “The Future of Africa-Australia Clean Energy and Critical Mineral Partnerships,” underscored commitments to climate change mitigation and renewable energy advancement.
In his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor and Chairman for the event, Prof. Emmanuel Ohene Afoakwa, emphasized the evolving energy landscape driven by climate change, fossil fuel depletion and sustainability needs. He highlighted the potential of Africa-Australia partnerships, leveraging Africa’s vast renewable energy resources and Australia’s research and critical mineral reserves. GCTU, he stated, is committed to technological innovation through its Silicon Valley Agenda, aiming to foster entrepreneurship and position the University as a hub for digital and green technology in Africa.
Prof. Afoakwa noted that Africa, despite its rich renewable energy resources, still faces energy access challenges. He stressed the need for research, innovation and strategic collaborations to bridge this gap. He outlined three key areas for Africa-Australia partnerships:
- Research and Innovation: Joint research projects, technology transfer and co-publications with Australian universities.
- Student and Faculty Exchange: Strengthening academic exchanges to foster innovation and knowledge sharing.
- Industry-Academia Partnerships: Engaging external partners to drive the clean energy agenda.
GCTU is actively expanding collaborations, particularly in green hydrogen technology, sustainable mining and digital energy solutions.
The Australian High Commissioner to Ghana, H.E. Berenice Owen-Jones highlighted climate change as a critical global issue affecting Africa through extreme weather, food insecurity and economic instability. She noted that Australia has committed $76.4 million to the Australia-Africa Partnership for Climate Responsive Agriculture (AAPCRA) 2024 –2030, which aims to enhance climate resilience and food security for smallholder farmers including in Ghana.
The Climate Change Counsellor at the Australian High Commission in Nairobi, Mr. Daniel Featherstone reinforced Australia’s commitment to supporting global climate action. He outlined Australia’s goal to cut emissions by 43% below 2005 levels by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, backed by $60 billion in climate investments. He also highlighted Australia’s Direct Aid Programme (DAP), which funds community-led development projects in West Africa, including initiatives focused on climate resilience and gender equality.
Panel Discussions and Key Takeaways
A panel discussion and Q&A session facilitated expert insights on clean energy adoption and climate resilience. Key takeaways included:
- Climate Change Impacts: Addressing Africa’s vulnerability to climate-related challenges.
- Sustainable Energy Solutions: Leveraging renewable sources like solar and wind.
- Transportation Innovations: The role of electric and hybrid vehicles.
- Partnerships: The need for collaboration between governments, research institutions, and the private sector.
- Satellite Imaging: Monitoring water bodies and mining sites for sustainable planning.
A highlight of the event was a poetry performance by Youth Climate Ambassador Nakeeyat Dramani Sam, who delivered a powerful message on the urgent need for climate action.
The symposium, which brought together experts from diverse fields to discuss climate and sustainable energy solutions, reinforced the significance of strategic partnerships and innovative solutions in advancing Africa’s clean energy future.
