Picture : Members of GhIE- KsTU in a group photography with the special guest (seated) after the programme.
In celebration of World Engineering Day, the Ghana Institution of Engineering (GhIE)-Branch 1 organised an exhibition event at the New Great Hall of Kumasi Technical University (KsTU). The event drew together eminent figures from the engineering profession and served as a platform to celebrate the global contributions of engineers.
GhIE Branch 1 Chairman Ing. Dr. Joseph Ribeiro, in his welcome address, underscored the significance of the day in recognizing the transformative influence of engineers and engineering on a global scale. The event, which was hosted by KsTU, facilitated collaboration among students from the second-cycle institutions, industry players and academia, fostering an environment of knowledge exchange and inspiration.
Picture :Ing. Dr. Joseph Ribeiro giving his address
Ing. Dr. Ribeiro highlighted the profound impact engineers make in shaping the future and enhancing the quality of life worldwide. Prof. Osei-Wusu Achaw, the immediate past Vice-Chancellor of KsTU and Chairman for the occasion emphasised the importance of the celebration and stated that it was an opportunity for all and sundry to acknowledge engineers' significant contributions.
Ing. Prof. Osei-Wusu Achaw addressed the misconception that engineering is a male-dominated field, urging female students to embrace the discipline and defy stereotyping. This call to action was primarily aimed at encouraging gender diversity within the engineering profession.
The World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development, declared by UNESCO in 2019, has been annually celebrated worldwide on 4th March since 2020. Prof. Achaw highlighted the role of engineering in human lives and sustainable development, encouraging governments and industries to address the issue of capacity and develop strategic frameworks.
The Guest of Honour, Ing. Emmanuel Wireko Brobbey, a Senior Medical Engineer at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, shared insights into initiatives that promote engineering among the younger generation. Recognizing engineering as the backbone of technological advancement, Ing. Brobbey emphasised its role in addressing complex challenges for a sustainable future.
Senior lecturer, Ing. Dr. Mrs. Benneta Koomson, from KNUST's Materials Engineering Department stressed the importance of innovation and sustainability in engineering solutions. She encouraged Ghanaian engineers to champion sustainability and provide solutions to everyday problems, emphasising the need to include women and girls in this pursuit.
The event featured an exhibition of innovative skills by KsTU students, demonstrating the practical applications of engineering. It was obvious that students left the event ground inspired and motivated, dispelling doubts about pursuing careers in engineering.
Considering a UNESCO report revealing the historic underrepresentation of women in engineering, the Ghana Institute of Engineers' World Engineering Day theme, "Engineering for Sustainable Development," echoed the need for inclusivity and breaking down gender stereotypes in the engineering profession.