The KNUST College of Engineering hosted a seminar titled "Industrialisation: Building Ghana’s Natural Gas Highway," with the theme "Fuelling Ghana’s Future: Engineering Excellence in Natural Gas Infrastructure Development." The event, organised in collaboration with Genser Energy Ghana Limited and the Brew Hammond Energy Centre, brought together students, faculty, and industry professionals to discuss the transformative role of natural gas in Ghana’s energy sector.
Prof. Francis Kemausuor, Dean of the Faculty of Mechanical and Chemical Engineering, delivered the welcome address on behalf of the Provost. He commended Genser Energy Ghana Limited for its pioneering work in developing Ghana’s gas pipeline infrastructure and expressed enthusiasm for the knowledge-sharing opportunity.
"This gathering reflects our shared commitment to advancing engineering excellence and sustainable development in Ghana," he said. "We are excited to host stakeholders from academia, industry, and research, whose collaborations drive innovation in the energy sector. As we explore the potential of natural gas infrastructure, let us engage with open minds and a shared vision to fuel Ghana’s future."
Prof. Kemausuor encouraged participants to actively engage in discussions and leverage the insights shared by industry experts.
Prof. David Ato Quansah, Director of the Brew Hammond Energy Centre, provided the background for the seminar, recalling a December 2024 meeting between Genser Energy and the College leadership. The discussions led to three key initiatives:
- Industrial visits for students and staff to Genser Energy facilities.
- Seminars and guest lectures by industry experts.
- Joint research projects in areas of mutual interest.
"In June, a team from KNUST visited Genser’s gas facility, fulfilling the first action. Today’s seminar marks the second milestone," Prof. Quansah noted. He urged students to apply their academic knowledge to real-world industry challenges.
The keynote lecture was delivered by Henry Abeiku Oppong, Vice President for Operations of the National Gas Pipeline at Genser Energy Ghana Limited and a KNUST alumnus (BSc Civil Engineering). He highlighted Genser Energy’s 18-year contribution to Ghana’s energy sector and its role in revolutionising natural gas infrastructure through capacity development, execution culture and performance monitoring.
Mr. Oppong took participants through the national gas pipeline network, installation processes, and operational challenges, particularly land acquisition and community engagement. He emphasised the importance of discipline, problem-solving, and adaptability for engineering students entering the industry.
A student inquired about opportunities for female engineers at Genser Energy. Mr. Oppong affirmed the company’s commitment to gender balance and encouraged more women to pursue engineering and energy infrastructure development careers.
The seminar reinforces the College of Engineering’s dedication to industry partnerships, equipping students with the skills needed to drive Ghana’s energy future.
