BRANCH 5 OF GHANA INSTITUTION OF ENGINEERS HOLDS CONFERENCE WITH FOCUS ON YOUTH AND WOMEN IN ENGINEERING

Branch 5 of the Ghana Institution of Engineers, which comprises members across the Northern Region, has held its annual conference with a strong emphasis on mentoring young engineers and promoting the participation of women in the engineering profession.

Speaking on the structure of the Institution, officials explained that the association operates several branches nationwide, with each region forming a branch. “Like the Northern Region, we constitute Branch 5,” a representative stated.

According to the organizers, while branch Annual General Meetings (AGMs) typically focus on internal matters, the national conference creates a platform for research paper presentations, knowledge sharing, and professional interactions. This year’s conference dedicated a special session specifically for young engineers within the membership.

In addition to the presentations by engineering firms, several reports were delivered as part of the conference proceedings. Participants will also embark on educational visits to facilities of the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, Ghana Airports Company Limited, and the Ghana Air Force. The visits aim to give engineers and architects a deeper understanding of operations within the aviation industry.

Personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service held sessions on fire prevention and safety, while pilot officers and staff of the Ghana Army demonstrated emergency exit procedures and how to safely evacuate a building during crises.

A panel discussion was also held, focusing particularly on youth in engineering as well as women in the engineering fraternity.

In an interview, the Branch Chairman for Branch 5, Engineer Abdul Shakud, said the decision to spotlight young and female engineers stems from the need to build a strong future for the profession.

“The youth are the leaders of tomorrow,” he said. “As engineers, we must mentor the engineers of tomorrow—guide them on ethics, build their skills, and ensure they become the competent professionals the country needs.”

On encouraging women to take up engineering, he highlighted the gender imbalance within the field.
“Engineering is generally male-dominated, yet Ghana’s population is 50-50. We cannot have only one side dominating. We must encourage our ladies to practice engineering. When diverse perspectives are brought together, the community benefits,” he added.

Some female engineers present at the event also encouraged young women to join the profession, stressing that engineering is open to everyone who has the passion and determination.

Source:Fiilafmonline/Walkiyatu Issahaku