UEW Launches American Chemical Society Student Chapter
The Department of Chemistry Education at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) has inaugurated the first-ever executive of the UEW Student Chapter of the American Chemical Society (ACS), marking a historic milestone in the University’s commitment to producing globally competitive chemists.
The ceremony, held at Lecture Theatre 7, South Campus, on Thursday, 7th August 2025, was themed “Empowering the 21st-Century Chemist for Global Impact.”
The pioneer executive members are Mr. Manasseh Amemasor, President; Ms. Diana Mensah, Vice-President; Ms. Lydia Owusu Adjei, Secretary; Mr. Enoch Koomson, Treasurer and Mr. Batuuro Muhazu, Organiser. Together, they are tasked with steering the chapter towards academic excellence, professional growth and global networking opportunities.
Dr. Ernest Koranteng, Faculty Advisor, underscored the immense academic, professional and networking benefits of joining the ACS, highlighting access to over 80 peer-reviewed journals, career development tools, international conferences, research grants and global collaborations.
“When you become a member of ACS, you are not just joining a society; you are joining a worldwide network of 155,000 chemists. This is an investment in your career, your visibility and your future,” he stated.
Prof. Ruby Hanson, Professor of Chemistry, stressed the vital role chemists play in addressing global and local challenges, from climate change and plastic waste to water pollution and renewable energy. She urged students to embrace interdisciplinary approaches, blending chemistry with environmental science, engineering, entrepreneurship and policy.
“Global engagement begins with local action and your student chapter is the bridge between the two,” she noted, commending the pioneering executives and faculty for their dedication.
Mr. Manasseh Amemasor, President of the UEW Chapter, expressed pride in leading the initiative, describing it as a platform for innovation, collaboration and leadership development. “We are not just students; we are potential changemakers. Let us build a strong, vibrant and impactful ACS community here at UEW,” he urged.
Prof. Emmanuel Oppong, former Head of the Department of Chemistry Education and Chairman of the event, lauded the formation of the chapter as a significant contribution to academia and national development. He challenged the new executives to make their voices heard through publications and active engagement.
“If this country fails, chemists have failed because we have the knowledge and resources to make a difference,” he remarked, encouraging students to invest in ACS membership as a pathway to career advancement and international opportunities.
The inauguration concluded with a renewed commitment from students and faculty to leverage the ACS platform for research, innovation and societal impact, positioning UEW as a hub for nurturing chemists equipped to solve the pressing challenges of the 21st century.
