STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE INSTITUTION OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY (IET), GHANA, ON WORLD ENGINEERING DAY 2025.
Fellow Ghanaians, esteemed engineers, policymakers, and development partners,
On this special occasion of World Engineering Day, the Institution of Engineering and Technology, Ghana (IET-GH), joins the global community in celebrating the vital role of engineering in sustainable development.
This year’s theme, “Unleashing the Power of Engineering to Advance the Sustainable Development Goals in Ghana,” challenges us to harness engineering and technology to drive national progress and create a better future for all.
Renewing Our National Mindset
For Ghana to fully benefit from engineering and technology, we must embrace a long-term, science-driven development mindset. Engineering is the foundation of industrialization, and as a nation, we must prioritize technical expertise, innovation, and evidence-based decision-making over short-term political interests.
Creating an Enabling Environment for Engineers
Engineers are at the heart of national development, but they require the right resources, policies, and infrastructure to thrive. We call on the government, private sector, and academia to collaborate in creating more opportunities for engineers, particularly in infrastructure, energy, manufacturing, and technology development.
Building Strong Institutions Free from Political Interference
Unnecessary political interference in engineering-related projects weakens our ability to implement sustainable solutions.
We must strengthen institutions to ensure that engineering decisions are guided by technical expertise, research, and national interest, rather than political cycles. Strong institutions promote long-term planning and ensure the successful execution of engineering projects.
Fighting Corruption to Achieve the SDGs
Corruption continues to hinder Ghana’s development, delaying and compromising critical engineering projects.
We must confront corruption by enforcing transparency, ensuring accountability, and upholding best practices in procurement, project execution, and infrastructure development. Without addressing corruption, achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) will remain out of reach.
Promoting Standardization and Supporting Local Industries
Ghana’s engineering sector has the capacity to develop high-quality, locally made products that meet global standards. However, this requires strict enforcement of standardization policies and a strong commitment to patronizing locally manufactured goods. Supporting local engineers and businesses will not only create jobs but also strengthen our economy and technological capabilities.
Advancing Competency-Based Education in Engineering and Technology
To remain competitive in the global engineering space, Ghana must shift from theory-based learning to a competency-based education system. Engineering and technology training must be practical, hands-on, and industry-focused, equipping graduates with the skills needed to solve real-world problems. Stronger collaboration between academia and industry is essential to achieving this transformation.
Investing in Homegrown Engineering Solutions
Many locally developed engineering solutions are overlooked in favor of foreign alternatives. This must change. Ghanaian engineers possess the expertise to design and implement solutions tailored to our country’s needs. We urge the government, businesses, and society to trust and invest in local engineering solutions.
Encouraging President John Mahama to Support Engineering Entrepreneurship
To drive industrial growth and create employment, engineers must be empowered to establish their own firms, research centers, and technology hubs.
We call on H.E. John Dramani Mahama to champion policies that:
•Support engineering entrepreneurship
•Provide funding for start-ups
•Invest in local engineering businesses
By fostering an environment where engineers can innovate and thrive, we will build a more self-reliant and technologically advanced Ghana.
Commending Efforts to End Illegal Mining (Galamsey)
Illegal mining (galamsey) poses a severe threat to Ghana’s forests, water bodies, and sustainable development efforts. If left unchecked, it will undermine our progress toward achieving key SDGs, particularly in environmental conservation, clean water, and sustainable land use.
We commend the President’s efforts to combat galamsey and urge all stakeholders to intensify the fight against this menace. We also encourage the adoption of engineering and technological solutions in:
•Reclaiming degraded lands
•Managing water resources
•Promoting responsible mining practices
Conclusion
On this World Engineering Day, we urge all stakeholders—government, private sector, academia, and engineering professionals—to work together to unleash the full potential of engineering in Ghana.
The future of our nation depends on how well we harness engineering and technology to address our challenges. Let us commit to:
•Removing barriers to innovation
•Investing in local engineers
•Advancing a sustainable and prosperous Ghana
Happy World Engineering Day!
Signed:
Engr. Henry Kwadwo Boateng
President, Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), Ghana
Date: March 4, 2025