Lively discussions ensued last week as final-year students from the Earth Science Department of the University of Ghana engaged representatives from the Petroleum Commission; seeking answers to questions ranging from how the Commission monitors oil offtakes, to how Ghana is preparing to handle energy transitions, and its associated benefits and attendant challenges among others.
The team of about fifty students led by their lecturers, Dr. Fiifi Ackom and Dr. Yvonne S.A. Loh, paid the visit to understand the Commission’s regulatory role and operational scope within Ghana’s upstream petroleum industry. The educational visit was part of a broader initiative to bridge academic learning with practical, real-world experience in the oil and gas sector.
Welcoming the students, Mrs. Adjoa Van Vicker, Director of Human Capital and General Services, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to fostering academic-industry partnerships. “The Petroleum Commission is always pleased to host such visits and remains dedicated to collaborating with institutions like the University of Ghana to nurture the next generation of professionals,” she said.
Presentations to these students were led by Mr. Isaac Eshun, Manager of Policy Planning and Coordination with strong support from Mr. Ali Yahaya from E&A, Ms. Portia Obeng from FD&P, Mr. Baba Nylander from Health, Safety & Environment (HSE), and Mr. Kwadwo Boateng from Projects Evaluation. Together, they provided an overview of the Commission’s work: from regulatory oversight to data management and industry best practices.
They also shed light on key industry themes such as regulatory frameworks, local content development, offshore operations, and environmental safeguards. Each session sparked engaging conversations, allowing students to delve deeper into the practical applications of their academic training.
One of the standout moments of the day was a career readiness session led by Mrs. Adjoa Van Vicker and Consultant, Geoscience, Dr. Isaac Oppong, where students received practical guidance on navigating the professional world. Topics like time management, excellence in execution, and workplace etiquette were discussed, providing a timely boost as the students prepare to transition from university to industry. The visit culminated in a guided tour of the Commission’s Data Room, led by Mr. Kwadwo Kyeremateng, Manager, Data Management. There, students gained firsthand exposure to the vast datasets that underpin decision-making in Ghana’s upstream petroleum sector.
Speaking on behalf of the Earth Science Department, Dr. Loh, expressed appreciation for the warm reception and impactful engagements. “This interaction has truly been an eye-opener, not just for our students but for us as lecturers as well. It reaffirms the importance of aligning classroom theory with industry realities,” she noted.
The visit forms part of the Commission’s efforts to support academia and foster connections between Ghana’s future geoscientists and energy professionals ensuring that they are not only well-educated but also industry ready.
Petroleum Commission Strengthens Academic Ties through Engagement with Legon Earth Science Students
