The two-year agreement, worth $50,000 and backed by Arima Resources and Bartglo Group, will engage students and faculty in developing practical solutions to some of Ghana’s most pressing environmental and mining challenges by integrating engineering, socio-economic, cultural, and policy interventions and initiatives.

Under the agreement, Academic City will lead initiatives such as using autonomous drone surveillance to monitor illegal mining, smart environmental monitoring systems to safeguard rivers and forests, digital compliance frameworks to improve security in the mining sector, databases to consolidate information and interventions to guide and drive policy, and a sustainable artisanal employment model to create safer jobs for the youth.

Additionally, the MoU will also provide an opportunity for student-led field research, capstone projects and prototype development ranging from mercury detection tools to advanced compliance monitoring systems. A joint steering committee between Academic City University, its industry partner, Arima Resources, and other stakeholders, including traditional leaders, civil society, and policymakers, will oversee the collaboration, ensuring that outcomes are scalable and capable of influencing policy, community, and industry practices.

According to experts, the involvement of academia in the fight against illegal mining is critical as academia tends to provide unbiased research, advanced technology and skilled manpower needed to develop sustainable solutions. By equipping students with real-world experience and innovative tools, institutions like Academic City help bridge the gap between policy, industry, and community action, ensuring that solutions to illegal mining are both scientifically sound and socially responsible.

Speaking at the official signing of this partnership, Ing. Dr. Lucy Agyepong, Vice President of Institutional Advancement, Academic City, said the partnership indicates the university’s commitment to addressing national challenges through research and innovation.

“Illegal mining continues to destroy water bodies and threaten livelihoods. By involving our students in developing AI-powered drones, sensor networks, and compliance tools, we are equipping them to protect our environment while contributing to Ghana’s sustainable development,” she noted.

Col. Ing. JM Opai-Tetteh, Director of Strategic Development at Arima Resources, said the partnership is an important step to support Ghana’s fight against illegal mining, which has damaged the country’s forests and water bodies.

“Arima Resources values Academic City’s strong commitment to excellence and innovation, which is why we see them as a key partner in promoting responsible mining practices,” he said.

Dr. Hephzi Tagoe, Project Lead and Head of Department, Biomedical Engineering at Academic City University expressed the team’s commitment towards the sensitisation of the youth involved in galamsey, and the students who will be working on these projects will appreciate their agency towards the development and sustainability of their communities, country and the continent.