The Africa Ocean Institute (AOI), University of Cape Coast, has launched its Alumni Network and Homecoming with a call on members to help nurture the institute into a continental hub.
The event, which brought together alumni, professionals, and stakeholders within the Blue Economy sector, was themed “Africa’s Blue Economy and the Role of Blue Professionals.”
It aimed at creating a platform for alumni to stay connected, monitor their progress and development, and strengthen the relationship between alumni and the AOI.
The chairperson for the programme, the Provost of the College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, Prof. Rofela Combey, described the event as an “acknowledgment” of what scholars can achieve when they come together in a concerted effort.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Denis Aheto, urged members of the AOI alumni network to do their best to help grow the institute into a truly continental hub for capacity development and research.
Delivering the keynote address, the President of Oceana Ghana, Ms. Sonia Kwami, emphasized the need for greater attention to Africa’s oceans and marine resources, stressing that the Blue Economy holds enormous potential for sustainable development, job creation and food security.
“Across Africa, our oceans, seas and lakes are finally recognized for what they are; these waters are not abstract policy issues; they are food on the table, income for families, transport for trade and hope for the next generation,” she said.
Ms. Kwami noted that despite the continent’s vast marine resources, the full potential of the Blue Economy could be realised only through equality among people, institutions, science, policies and leadership.
She added that the theme enabled reflection on the economic benefits of the Blue Economy, connecting it to the “African Union Blue Economy Strategy.”
She called on the AOI Alumni Network and researchers to take keen interest in ocean governance and conservation, emphasising that the future of Africa’s Blue Economy depends on the collective efforts of all stakeholders.
Ms. Kwami further stressed the need for the Africa Ocean Institute and its Alumni Network to invest in technical skills and create viable pathways for young people interested in the Blue Economy.
She also urged the Institute and its alumni to remain committed to excellence and actively influence policies that would promote sustainable ocean governance and development.
“We have to invest in technical skills and pathways for young people; we should be committed to excellence, and we should learn how to influence policies,” she stated.
She charged members of the Alumni Network to build a Blue Economy that creates prosperity without sacrificing the people and the ecosystems,
Speaking during a panel discussion on the theme, “Africa’s Blue Economy and the Role of Blue Professionals,” the panelists explored the vast potential of Africa’s marine and coastal resources and the responsibility of professionals to ensure that these resources are utilised sustainably.
The discussion highlighted the need for students and professionals in the Blue Economy to move beyond knowledge acquisition and translate their ideas and research into impactful solutions. Emphasis was placed on networking, collaboration, resource mobilisation, and creating systems that connect research, policy, investment, and innovation.
The panelists also underscored the need to build the capacity of young professionals through education, research, innovation, and practical training.
The panelists were Dr. Alberta Sagoe, Dr. Edward Amarteifio, Mr. Socrates Segbor, Mr. Richster Nii Amarh Armahfio, and Mr. Paulino Dias.
The event ended with the swearing-in of the elected executives of the Alumni Network.
Present at the event was the acting Pro Vice-Chancellor of UCC, Prof. Christine Adu Yeboah.
Source: Documentation and Information Section - UCC
