The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), Ghana, has inducted more than 130 new engineers into the profession, with a call for greater innovation, integrity and creativity in tackling the country’s development challenges.
The induction ceremony was held under the theme, “Engineering Ghana’s Future: Innovation, Integrity and Sustainable Development.”
Speaking at the ceremony, President of the IET, Engr. Davor Wonder, described the induction as more than a celebration of the new engineers’ achievements, saying it marked the beginning of their responsibility to use their skills to improve the lives of Ghanaians.
He urged the new engineers to think beyond traditional approaches and develop innovative solutions to some of the country’s long-standing infrastructure challenges.
IET President calls for underground rail system
Engr. Wonder proposed that Ghana begin serious planning for an underground urban rail system to address congestion in major cities.
He said such a system, linked to existing road and surface transport networks, could ease traffic congestion, improve mobility, reduce emissions and limit the pressure to continuously expand roads in densely populated areas.
“This is not a call for another conventional transport project. It is a call for us to think beyond today’s limitations and begin designing the transportation system that Ghana will need in the next 30, 50 and 100 years,” he said.
He acknowledged that an underground rail network would require significant investment and long-term planning.
He said Ghana would also need innovative financing, transparent procurement processes, strong engineering standards, effective safety systems and sustained political commitment to make such a project possible.
Engineers urged to uphold integrity
The IET President also urged the newly inducted engineers to make integrity a key part of their professional lives.
He warned that poor engineering decisions, shortcuts and corruption could put lives at risk and undermine the development of the country.
He therefore encouraged the engineers to protect the public interest, reject unsafe practices and maintain professional standards even when doing so may be difficult.
Engr. Wonder also called on them to embrace sustainable development by designing infrastructure that is environmentally friendly, economically viable and resilient to climate change.
He said Ghana needed engineers who were willing to challenge the status quo and constantly ask how things could be done “better, smarter, safer and more sustainably.”
He further encouraged the new professionals to use their expertise to modernise Ghana’s cities, improve infrastructure, promote local manufacturing and develop technologies that respond to the country’s needs.
Congratulating the newly inducted engineers, Engr. Wonder urged them to carry the title “Engineer” with pride, humility and responsibility.
He expressed confidence that the new generation of engineers would play an important role in shaping Ghana’s future through innovation, ethical leadership and sustainable development.
