The College of Engineering recently welcomed one of its alumni, Dr. George Banini, for a courtesy visit that was reflective and mutually beneficial. Accompanied by Prof. Emeritus Francis W. Y. Momade, Prof. Samuel Kwofie, and Prof. Emmanuel Gikuno, Dr. Banini met with the Provost of the College, Prof. Kwabena Nyarko Biritwum. Discussions centered around his upcoming appointment as an adjunct professor and his recently established GABLOT Banini Scholarship Scheme, designed to support academically gifted but financially disadvantaged graduate students in metallurgical engineering.
The meeting marked a full-circle moment for Dr. Banini, who graduated from the Institute of Mining and Mineral Engineering, (a child of the then School of Engineering in the late 1980s) and has since gone on to lead high-impact operations in global mining.
Today, he is the Director of Operations and Executive Vice President of one of the world’s largest copper and gold mining operations at PT Freeport Indonesia, managing over 28,000 personnel and navigating some of the most technically complex conditions in the industry.
“I left Tech in 1989, did national service here, then left in 1991 for South Africa,” he shared. “Since then, it’s been South Africa, Australia, the U.S, and for the past 21 years, Indonesia.”
The Provost welcomed Dr. Banini with warmth and appreciation, acknowledging his long-standing support and the value of his expertise.
“We’re happy to have the opportunity to engage and support what you’re doing,” said the Provost.
“Your willingness to give back means a lot—especially at a time when we need to enrich our programs and inspire the next generation of engineers.”
The conversation quickly turned from courtesy to collaboration. The Provost and Prof. Emeritus Momade suggested that Dr. Banini deliver a public lecture on his next visit that could impact not just students, but the wider mining and engineering community in Ghana.
“We should organize a public lecture - one here in Kumasi, another in Accra,” said Prof. (Em). Momade. “Let the entire mining community benefit from his experience. And we can record sessions for our e-learning platforms too”, Prof. Biritwum suggested.
Dr. Banini agreed enthusiastically, proposing an overview of global mining and metallurgical innovations, with emphasis on underground operations in extreme conditions, and how these lessons could inform Ghana's own mineral extraction practices.
“Any interaction, any way I can help in any shape or form—I’m in,” Dr. Banini affirmed.
He also emphasized the importance of building the next generation, citing his past involvement with scholarships and mentorships, and his willingness to engage virtually via Teams or in-person during visits to Ghana.
The GABLOT_Banini Scholarship Scheme, discussed during the meeting, is set to cover tuition, accommodation, stipends, and research support for eligible graduate students. With a focus on excellence, leadership, and service, it seeks to empower recipients to pioneer positive change in engineering and beyond.
“Giving back is important. It inspires students when they see where alumni have gone, and it opens their imagination to what’s possible,” Dr. Banini said.
Dr. Banini maintains strong ties to Ghana, visiting multiple times a year and supporting educational institutions like his alma mater and former high school. His personal story, grounded in hard work, global experience, and a commitment to community, made a powerful impression on the College leadership.
“We’re happy to have the opportunity to engage and support what you’re doing.”
— Provost, College of Engineering
The College of Engineering looks forward to formalizing his adjunct professorship and launching a new chapter of collaboration.
