President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has reiterated his government’s commitment to tackling illegal mining, known as galamsey, citing its devastating impact on water bodies, farmlands, and the environment. Speaking at the maiden congregation of the University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD) in Somanya, Eastern Region, President Akufo-Addo highlighted the integration of responsible mining practices, community partnerships, and advanced technologies such as drone surveillance to intensify the fight against galamsey. He also stressed the importance of training professionals to support these efforts and underscored the need for sustainable practices to combat the adverse effects of climate change, ensuring a balance between environmental conservation and development. “We are living in a world that demands urgent action. The impact of climate change is no longer a distant threat. It is here with us. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, depleting water resources, deforestation, and biodiversity loss are all stark reminders of the need to rethink how we live and interact with our environment. “The establishment of UESD was a deliberate response to these challenges. This university is strategically positioned to produce experts, researchers, and innovators who can address environmental, social, and economic sustainability. “From renewable energy to sustainable agriculture, waste management to climate policy, UESD graduates are equipped to lead the charge in transforming Ghana into a global example of sustainable development.”