Young engineers have been advised to place a premium on safety and professional standards instead of allowing convenience, cost and schedule to inform their decisions in carrying out their work.
This is because compromising on safety for convenience could have a severe and long-lasting consequence that could also affect both professional integrity and lives.
“Never compromise safety for convenience, cost or schedule as that can have severe and long-lasting consequences, affecting not only individuals but organisations and society as a whole,” the President of the Institution of Engineering Technology (IET), Ghana, Henry Kwadwo Boateng, has advised.
Mr Boateng gave the advice at the induction of 200 fresh engineers into the IET-Ghana in Accra last Friday. The event was on the theme: “Ethics and Integrity, Cornerstone of the Engineering Profession”.
The IET President charged the inductees to adhere to the code of standards, follow established codes, standards and regulations in their work, imploring them to be honest and transparent, as well as communicate truthfully and openly with their clients, mentors, coaches, colleagues and stakeholders.
“Continuously learn and improve, stay updated with industry development and best practices. Take responsibility. Own up to mistakes and take corrective action,” he said.
Mr Boateng encouraged the engineers to respect their colleagues and clients and treat others with dignity and respect at all times, avoiding situations where personal interest conflicted with professional responsibilities.
“It is essential to prioritise ethical behaviour and treat everyone with respect and dignity regardless of background or identity,” he said.
Mr Boateng urged members to create an enabling environment within the industry where everyone felt valued, respected and motivated to contribute their best.
“By cultivating a culture of companionship and support, we not only strengthen our institution but also inspire the next generation of engineering practitioners,” he said, emphasised that “the induction of new members into our institution is not merely a formality, but a celebration of our shared passion for engineering and technology”.
The Registrar of the Engineering Council, Isaac Bedu, in an address read on his behalf, told the engineers that their induction into the esteemed profession was a testament to their dedication, hard work, and commitment to upholding the highest standards of excellence in the field.
He said the Engineering Council was established by the Engineering Council Act 2011 (Act 819) to regulate and secure the highest professional standards in the practice of Engineering in Ghana.
The Legislative Instrument, Engineering Council Regulations, 2020 (LI. 2410), he said were made in July 2020 to ensure the smooth implementation of the Law.
“The council is dedicated to promoting excellence, professionalism, transparency, and technological advancement in the practice of engineering in Ghana. By Law no one can practise engineering in Ghana without being licensed by the Engineering Council,” he said.