The University approaches its programmes and research emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration and taking into account, areas such as economics, law and policy, management, science, technology and engineering as well as social and political issues affecting energy and natural resources. The University was established by an Act of Parliament, University of Energy and National Resources Act, 2011 (Act 830), on December 31, 2011. UENR was inaugurated in November 2012. The inauguration ceremony coincided with the matriculation of 154 foundation students and the induction of the Foundation Vice-Chancellor.