The Forestry Commission Training Centre (FCTC), in affiliation with the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR), has officially matriculated 81 students into its maiden Certificate in Natural Resource Management (CNRM) programme, with a strong pledge from the Forestry Commission’s leadership to intensify the fight against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.
The second matriculation ceremony of the Centre, held at its forecourt, marked a significant milestone in efforts to strengthen Ghana’s technical workforce in forestry and wildlife management. The newly introduced 18-month CNRM course seeks to produce highly trained, middle-level technicians capable of providing frontline technical support to the Forestry Commission and contributing to sustainable natural resource management.
In his keynote address, Chief Executive Officer of the Forestry Commission, Dr. Hugh C. A. Brown, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to ending illegal mining in forest reserves and restoring degraded lands. He emphasized that the training of a new generation of skilled professionals is a critical step in safeguarding Ghana’s forests and wildlife.
“This initiative demonstrates our dedication to equipping young professionals with the knowledge and field experience needed to protect our environment. These trainees will become key partners in our fight against galamsey and other threats to our forests,” Dr. Brown said.
He stressed that the Forestry Commission will continue to invest in capacity-building and technical expertise to strengthen operations across its three divisions, ensuring better enforcement and conservation strategies nationwide.
Speaking to the media, the Director of the Forestry Commission Training Centre, Mrs. Roselyn Fosuah Adjei, highlighted the Centre’s mandate to train and supply skilled personnel for the forestry and wildlife sector. She noted, however, that the Centre faces challenges, including inadequate infrastructure and resources, which hinder its efforts to deliver on its mission.
“As an institution, we are dedicated to producing skilled technicians to protect Ghana’s forests and wildlife. However, we face several challenges that threaten our ability to operate at full capacity. We are appealing to the government, development partners, and the general public to support us in achieving our goals,” Mrs. Adjei said.
The ceremony, attended by staff of the Forestry Commission, representatives of UENR, families of the matriculants, and other dignitaries, featured the administration of the matriculation oath, symbolizing the students’ formal admission into the programme.
With the launch of the CNRM course, the Forestry Commission Training Centre has positioned itself as a strategic hub for building technical expertise in natural resource management. The initiative is expected to boost Ghana’s capacity to combat illegal mining, preserve forest reserves, and promote environmental sustainability.
