The Faculty of Built and Natural Environment (FBNE) of Ho Technical University (HTU) on Monday, July 20, 2026, celebrated its Faculty Week at the G.M. Afeti Auditorium under the theme, “Building Sustainable Communities through Innovation, Excellence and Collaboration.” The event brought together academia, industry professionals, students and other stakeholders to deliberate on the role of the built and natural environment in advancing sustainable national development.
Opening the celebration, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ben Q. Honyenuga, commended the Faculty for selecting a theme that aligns with Ghana’s development agenda and the University’s vision for sustainable development. He noted that building sustainable communities goes beyond physical infrastructure and urged students and professionals in building technology, architecture and environmental science to embrace innovation and adopt practices that create resilient, smart and environmentally responsible communities.
Prof. Honyenuga further encouraged the Faculty to apply classroom knowledge and professional expertise to addressing challenges such as pollution, waste management and climate resilience, stressing that innovation should translate into practical solutions that improve lives.
The Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Harrison Coffie, expressed appreciation to staff, students and the organising committee for their commitment to the celebration. He described innovation as improving existing ideas through meaningful solutions, adding that excellence must accompany innovation to achieve lasting and impactful outcomes.
Delivering the keynote address, the President of the Institute of Engineering and Technology, Ghana (IET-GH), Engr. Wonder Davor, described the theme as timely and called on professionals and students in the built environment to embrace innovation, uphold professional excellence and strengthen collaboration to build sustainable and resilient communities.
Activities held during the week included inter-departmental sports competitions, a free health screening and NHIS renewal exercise, a clean-up exercise, a fun trip, and a Dinner and Awards Night, all aimed at promoting teamwork, healthy living, community service and stronger bonds among students, staff and stakeholders.
The celebration attracted representatives from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Civil Engineering Division of IET-GH, the Ghana Fire Service, engineers, architects, environmental professionals and other industry stakeholders, reaffirming the Faculty’s commitment to strengthening collaboration between academia and industry in advancing sustainable development.