By Joyce Boahemaa Fosu
In observance of World Sustainable Energy Day, the GIMPA-PURC Centre of Excellence in Public Utility Regulation (CEPUR) hosted its inaugural policy dialogue on the theme, ‘Energy Transition Now: Fast, Smart, and Resilient.’ The event occurred on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at the Executive Conference Centre (GECC) of the Greenhill Campus of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA). Distinguished participants included representatives from key stakeholders in the energy sector, academia, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), and Think Tanks.
Dr. Augustina Akonnor, the Acting Deputy Rector of GIMPA, extended a warm welcome to the participants on behalf of the Rector, Prof. Samuel Kwaku Bonsu, currently on official duty abroad. Dr. Alfred Ofosu Ahenkorah, the former Executive Secretary of the Energy Commission, presided over the event and emphasised the need for a global perspective in addressing energy issues, with a particular emphasis on tailoring implementation policies to the local context for practicality and sustainability.
Providing the background on CEPUR, Prof. Samuel Adams, the Coordinator for CEPUR, explained that the Centre, established in February 2023, aims to advance the field of public utility regulation. This is achieved through the development of regulatory experts and researchers, focusing primarily on electricity, water, and natural gas. CEPUR fulfills its mission by offering academic research, consultancy services, and facilitating seminars and regulatory discussions.
Hon. Herbert Krapa, Deputy Minister of Energy, spoke on behalf of the Minister of Energy, Hon. Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh, commending GIMPA, CEPUR, and the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) for the initiative. He assured participants of the government’s commitment to collaborating with institutions and organisations to enhance the energy sector for the benefit of the nation.
Dr. Robert Bright Mawuko Sogbadji, the Deputy Director of Power (Nuclear & Alternate Energy) at the Ministry of Energy, made a presentation on behalf of the Ministry of Energy. Additionally, Dr. Riverson Oppong, Commercial Manager at the Ghana National Gas Company Limited, delivered a presentation on ‘Sustainable Energy for Africa: The Role of Natural Gas.’
The event also featured engaging panel discussions, where panel members contributed to a meaningful discourse around the central theme. The floor was then opened for participants to share comments and pose questions, fostering an interactive exchange of ideas.
The programme was co-hosted by the Secretary of the Institute, Dr. Victoria Kunbour adding a seamless flow to the proceedings. The success of this inaugural policy dialogue underscores the commitment of GIMPA, CEPUR, and their partners in addressing critical issues shaping the future of sustainable energy.
DIRECTORATE OF CORPORATE AFFAIRS & INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT
