The University for Development Studies (UDS) has commemorated the 2026 World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development with a vibrant programme designed to inspire innovation and highlight the transformative role of engineering in national development.

Held under the theme “Smart Engineering for a Sustainable Future through Innovation and Digitalization,” the celebration brought together senior high school students, university students, academics, engineers, and industry professionals to explore how engineering can drive sustainable solutions, technological advancement, and economic growth in Ghana.

Delivering remarks on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Seidu Al-hassan, the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences,, Prof. Eliasu Alhassa, who delivered the keynote address, underscored the central role engineers play in shaping modern societies.

“Engineers are the architects of progress. From resilient infrastructure and sustainable energy systems to digital technologies that connect the world, engineering remains fundamental to building a prosperous and sustainable future,” he stated.

The Dean of the Faculty of Natural Resources, Prof. Samuel Jerry Cobbina, emphasized the importance of engineering in addressing global challenges such as climate change, food security, and environmental sustainability.

“The world today faces complex challenges that require innovative solutions. Engineers are uniquely positioned to design systems and technologies that improve lives while protecting the environment,” Prof. Cobbina said.

The event, chaired by the Dean of the Scool of Engineering, Prof. Maxwell Gyampo, particularly targeted Senior High School (SHS) students, encouraging them to explore career opportunities in engineering and other STEM-related fields. Speakers stressed the need to nurture curiosity and creativity among young people in order to prepare them for the demands of a rapidly evolving digital world.

Ing. Bismark Ottoo of the Ghana Institution of Engineering (GhIE) reminded students that engineering is deeply embedded in everyday life and urged them to see themselves as future problem-solvers.

“Engineering shapes the roads we travel on, the energy that powers our homes, and the technologies that define modern life. Young people must begin to see themselves as the innovators and engineers who will design Ghana’s future,” he noted.

The Secretary General of the Ghana Commission for UNESCO. Prof. Osman Tahidu Damba, the special Guest of Honour, also highlighted the global push for stronger STEM education and encouraged responsible and ethical use of emerging technologies.

“As technologies such as artificial intelligence continue to evolve, it is important that young engineers develop not only technical competence but also ethical responsibility in applying these innovations for the benefit of society,” the representative said.

A message delivered on behalf of the President of the Ghana Institution of Engineering, called on engineers to uphold the highest professional standards while harnessing innovation to address pressing national challenges. “Engineers must rise to the challenge of climate change, rapid urbanization, and infrastructure development by applying innovative solutions that advance national development,” he emphasized.

The Guest Speaker, Ing. Prof. Bismark Otoo, further stressed the indispensable role of engineers in national progress, warning that countries without strong engineering capacity risk remaining dependent on others for development.

“A nation without engineers would have no choice but to depend on other nations for growth. Ghana needs engineers with fresh ideas and innovative spirits, particularly in areas that can reduce imports and strengthen our industrial base,” he stated.

He encouraged young students to pursue diverse engineering disciplines and develop practical skills that would enable them to contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s transformation agenda.

The Vice Dean of the School of Engineering, Ing Dr, Enoch Lawson also highlighted the rapid growth of the UDS School of Engineering, which now offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes while supporting research initiatives such as the Energy Research Centre.

As part of the celebration, participants were also informed about an upcoming robotics exhibition, which will showcase innovative engineering projects developed by students from across Ghana.

The World Engineering Day celebration at UDS ultimately served as a platform to inspire young minds, strengthen collaboration between academia and industry, and reaffirm the university’s commitment to advancing engineering education, research, and innovation for national development.

Story by: Subaiha Ibrahim, Humul-Kulsum Musah & Ibrahim Abubakari
(UDS Media)