The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Emmanuel Ohene Afoakwa, has affirmed that GCTU is committed to fostering an environment where creativity and technology converge.
He made this remark at a special event organized by the GCTU Engineering Students Association (ESA) in collaboration with the Faculty of Engineering on March 4, 2025, at the Florence Onny Auditorium, to commemorate World Engineering Day. The theme for the occasion was “Tech-Driven Engineering Innovations for Sustainable Development.”
Prof. Afoakwa stressed that Faculty, in collaboration with students, is actively involved in pioneering research that focuses on developing sustainable materials, energy-efficient designs and intelligent systems. These innovations aim at enhancing quality of life while significantly reducing environmental impact. He underscored the importance of collaboration between academia and industry in leveraging technology for sustainable development.
“By working together, we can use cutting-edge research and technologies to address global challenges and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ultimately creating a brighter, more sustainable future,” he noted. He further encouraged students to embrace innovation and contribute meaningfully to the field of engineering.
The Guest Speaker and Founder of Edenway Foundation/Director of GAIA Programme, Prof. George Wiafe, highlighted the critical role engineers play in shaping society. He shared two guiding principles: adopting a solution-oriented mindset – viewing challenges as opportunities for innovation – and thinking outside the box to pioneer new solutions. He also stressed the value of networking, urging students to leverage strategic connections to amplify their impact and access essential resources.
The CEO of Soko Aerial Robotics and Director of the Ghana Armed Forces Drone Services, Ing. Kofi Owusu Adusei, discussed the transformative role of drone technology in security and disaster management. He pointed out that while academic learning provides a foundation, practical experience is crucial. He encouraged students to seek internships, voluntary work and mentorship opportunities to gain industry-specific skills. Emphasizing the importance of presentation, he advised, “Let your appearance reflect the sharpness of your ideas.”
The Chairman of GhIE Accra Branch 4, Ing. Michael Codjoe, reiterated that engineering is fundamentally about solving problems. He encouraged students to explore areas where they can make a meaningful impact, particularly in line with SDG 8 on “Decent Work and Economic Growth.” Highlighting the potential of Artificial Intelligence, he urged them to develop expertise in AI and its applications across various industries.
The Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Dr. Ruhiya Abubakar, traced the origins of World Engineering Day and its significance in celebrating engineers’ achievements. She noted that GCTU began commemorating the day in 2022 to showcase innovative ideas for solving societal problems. “GCTU is noted for excellence in ICT and our focus is to highlight engineering as a rewarding career path,” she said. Dr. Abubakar outlined five key principles for students: continuous learning, time management, strong communication skills, a problem-solving mindset and networking. “As future engineers, I encourage you to prepare for the challenge of innovation,” she remarked.
The ceremony also featured the presentation of awards to outstanding faculty members for their significant contributions to academia and societal impact. Notable awardees included the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Emmanuel Ohene Afoakwa, Dr. Samuel Afoakwa (HoD, Electrical and Electronics Engineering), Ing. Emmanuel Effah (Faculty Exams Officer/Lecturer at the Electrical and Electronics Department), and Mr. Emmanuel Kwame Mensah (Lecturer at the Mathematics and Statistics Department).
The event concluded with a cutting-edge exhibition of technological innovations, showcasing impressive displays from GCTU’s Faculty and Engineering students, as well as students from notable Senior High Schools, including Accra Academy.
