The University of Engineering and Agricultural Sciences (UEAS) will soon have its governing Council announced by President John Dramani Mahama, following Parliament’s passage of the law establishing the institution, which outlines clear governance and management structures.
The Council will be responsible for strategic planning, policy oversight, financial management, and high-level appointments. Additionally, it will promote collaborations with other universities, spearhead income-generating initiatives, and exercise general powers to define provisions for tenure, meetings, and conflict-of-interest disclosures of its members.
Background
The UEAS will have its main campus in Bunso, Eastern Region, with satellite campuses at Kenyasi in the Ashanti Region and Acherensua in the Ahafo Region. The government has confirmed that a $92 million financing deal has been finalized with a Korean contractor to commence and complete the University project.
Mandate and Objectives of the University
Operating as an autonomous institution, the University will offer higher education to qualified students, conduct research in engineering and agricultural sciences, and apply knowledge to address societal needs. Agriculture remains a key sector in Ghana’s economy, contributing 20%–26% of GDP in recent years and employing nearly half of the workforce.
Despite its significance, many farmers along the agricultural value chain still rely on outdated practices, which has hindered the production of high-yield crops and contributed to low agricultural output nationwide. The establishment of UEAS aims to provide real-time solutions to these challenges by developing modern technologies and innovative approaches to enhance agriculture.
In today’s age of frontier technologies and increasing use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for improving crop yields and reducing operational costs, the University’s creation is timely in addressing existing gaps.
The project, initially launched by the Akufo-Addo government in 2023, stalled due to payment issues with the Korean contractor.
At a press briefing in Accra on April 3, 2026, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu confirmed that the current government has secured a $92 million financing arrangement to ensure the University’s completion. He emphasized that UEAS will play a critical role in equipping students with modern skills in agriculture and engineering.
Historical Context of UEAS
In May 2022, former President Nana Akufo-Addo laid the foundation stone for UEAS, with the project initially expected to be completed within 24 months. The University’s focus has consistently aimed to meet domestic industry demands and establish itself as a centre of excellence in engineering, agricultural sciences, applied sciences, and the built environment.
Funding for the project comes from the Export-Import Bank of Korea and the Economic Development Cooperation Fund of the Republic of Korea.
The University is part of the government’s broader strategy to address national challenges, including food security, while leveraging technology to drive development.
