The President of the Institute of Engineering and Technology, Ghana (IET-GH), Engr. Wonder Davor, has called on professionals and students in the built environment to embrace innovation, excellence and collaboration as key drivers of sustainable community development.
Delivering the keynote address at the launch of the Faculty of Built and Natural Environment (FBNE) Week of Ho Technical University (HTU) on Monday, July 20, 2026, at the G.M. Afeti Auditorium, Engr. Davor described the theme, “Building Sustainable Communities through Innovation, Excellence and Collaboration,” as timely and relevant in addressing contemporary development challenges.
He noted that professionals in the built environment are not merely constructors of physical infrastructure but custodians of sustainable development whose decisions directly influence the quality of life of present and future generations. He therefore urged students and practitioners to pursue innovative solutions while upholding competence, integrity and a commitment to lifelong learning.
Engr. Davor further stressed that sustainable development demands multidisciplinary collaboration among engineers, architects, planners, surveyors, environmental scientists, policymakers, financiers and communities, noting that no single profession can effectively address society’s complex challenges alone.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ben Q. Honyenuga, commended the Faculty for selecting a theme that aligns with the University’s commitment to sustainable development and encouraged students and professionals to harness innovation in developing resilient, smart and environmentally responsible communities.
Also speaking at the event, the First Vice-President of IET-GH, Prof. Humphrey Danso, encouraged students to enrol as student members of the Institute to benefit from mentorship, training and networking opportunities that would prepare them for professional engineering practice.
The Volta Regional Fire Commander, ACFO II Joseph Tetteh Freeman, underscored the importance of integrating fire safety into the planning, design and construction of infrastructure, stressing that strict adherence to fire safety regulations is essential to building safe and resilient communities.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from academia and industry to strengthen partnerships, foster professional development and equip future built environment professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to address emerging societal challenges.