The Ghana Institution of Engineering (GhIE) Branch 5 successfully held its 2nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Conference from November 27-28, 2024, at the VRA Clubhouse in Tamale.
The event, centred on the theme “Resilience Engineering for the Future, a National Development Imperative,” brought together engineering professionals to deliberate on sustainable solutions for national development.
The two-day conference highlighted the pivotal role of engineering in building resilient systems capable of withstanding the challenges posed by climate change, rapid urbanisation, and resource constraints. It also served as a platform for knowledge sharing and professional networking among members of the institution.
Call for Professionalism and Membership Growth
In his opening remarks, Engineer Abdul Shakud Idrisu, Chairman of GhIE Branch 5, emphasised the importance of maintaining high standards of professionalism in engineering practices. He called on his colleagues to uphold ethical values and dedication in their work, which he noted were crucial for preserving the integrity and reputation of the institution.
Engineer Idrisu also encouraged non-members of the association to join, highlighting the numerous advantages of being part of GhIE. “Membership offers opportunities for professional development, networking, and the collective ability to influence policy and practice for national progress,” he stated.
Promoting Green Engineering for Sustainability
Delivering a keynote message on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor of Tamale Technical University, Professor Adams Issahaku urged engineers to adopt “green engineering” principles. He advocated for innovation that focuses on the reuse and recycling of resources, which he said is critical to achieving a sustainable and environmentally friendly future.
“The world is moving toward sustainability, and as engineers, we must lead the charge by designing systems and processes that minimise environmental harm while maximising efficiency,” Professor Issahaku said. He underscored the importance of integrating environmentally conscious practices into engineering projects to ensure resilience in the face of global challenges.
Highlights and Outcomes
The conference featured a series of technical presentations, panel discussions, and workshops, all aimed at equipping participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to address contemporary engineering challenges. Attendees explored various aspects of resilience engineering, including infrastructure development, energy efficiency, and disaster risk management.
Discussions at the conference also delved into strategies for bridging the gap between academia and industry, with participants identifying opportunities to foster collaboration for innovation and development.
Conclusion
The 2nd AGM and Conference of GHIE Branch 5 reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to fostering excellence and sustainability in engineering practices. With the enthusiastic participation of its members and stakeholders, the event underscored the critical role of engineers in driving national development and building a resilient future.
As the conference concluded, participants were charged with the responsibility of applying the insights gained to their work, ensuring that their contributions align with the vision of sustainable growth.
By: Prince Kwame Tamale/Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana