61 new architects received state licenses to work in Ghana

The Architects Registration Council (ARC) has recruited 61 new architects with a state license to practice as architects in Ghana after passing the Professional Practice Examination (PPE).

The inauguration ceremony, which marked an important step towards strengthening architectural standards and compliance in the country, was held at the Ghana Seafarers’ Authority in Accra with the theme “Increasing Architectural Compliance and Sanctions: A Call for Cooperation”.

The ceremony bridges the academic and professional lives of every architect.

Six years of academic qualification at university culminate in at least two years of post-qualification coaching and internships under the supervision of a qualified principal architect, structured seminars and training, and finally a professional examination before obtaining a government license to practice in Ghana.

Bringing together board members, colleagues, past presidents and some chief architects, representatives from built environment professional bodies, council registrars and academia, the colorful event saw candidates sworn in by both the Architects Registration Council and the Ghana Institute of Architects (GIA). ) by the registrar and the president respectively.

Architects Registration Council Registrar Arc Dr. Emmanuel Eyiah-Botwe welcomed participants and guests and affirmed the ARC’s commitment to organizing the practice of architecture as the cornerstone of national development and achieving sustainable and aesthetically appealing built environment.

He described the event as a reaffirmation of ARC’s mission to maintain the highest standards and professional integrity.

“Therefore, we are pleased to announce that ARC’s Head Office Building will be renovated into a 3-storey building, a vehicle will be provided by the Ministry, and an enforcement Unit will be established to increase compliance and enforcement. ”.

Dr. Eyiah-Botwe called on new Architects to embrace the responsibilities that come with success.

“You are now part of a prestigious community of professionals who shape not only our nation’s skyline but also the quality of life. “The journey is full of opportunities to innovate, inspire and contribute to the development of Ghana.”

ARC Chairman of the Board Arc. Richard Nii Dadey echoed the theme and called for greater cooperation to improve compliance and enforcement.

He noted: “Government alone cannot mandate compliance without our voluntary commitment. Let us integrate accessibility and safety considerations into every design to ensure a built environment that serves everyone.”

Arc. President of the Ghana Institute of Architects (GIA), Foster Osae Akonnor, lamented the absence of architects in the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDA) in the country, emphasizing the need for more support within these local institutions.

“Architecture in Ghana is facing a crisis. Few MMDAs have architects, hindering developmental control. “I urge our new architects to step up, collaborate and contribute where their skills are needed most.”

Eng. made the opening speech. Head of Local Government Services Dr. Nana Ato Arthur emphasized that adherence to professional standards protects public welfare and promotes high-quality human settlements.

He urged candidates to view compliance as a shared responsibility with the state and maintain strict standards in their work.

Arc, who chaired the event. Gizella Tetteh-Agbotui, Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya West Constituency, reiterated the importance of compliance in architectural practice and encouraged emerging architects to also prioritize local issues such as the challenges posed by activities including illegal mining (“galamsey”) and advocate for sustainable solutions in Ghana’s built environment . He encouraged professionals, including local artisans, to obtain appropriate licenses to ensure legal and compliant practices in the industry.

Also present at the ceremony was the overall best candidate, Nana Ayensua Amonoo, who in his acceptance speech encouraged his fellow nominees to embrace curiosity, professionalism and a shared determination to improve Ghana’s infrastructure.

“We enter the profession at a momentous time of transformation for Ghana. “Let’s cooperate and create permanent structures that we are proud to leave to future generations,” he said.

Representing Sector Minister Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, the Chief Director of the Ministry of Public Works and Housing, Rev. Stephen Yaw Osei emphasized the role of architects as “guardians of security and sustainability” amid the complexity of urbanization.

He outlined Government initiatives to support compliance, including the establishment of a Labor Inspection Directorate Unit to inspect architectural qualifications and promoting a system for close cooperation.

“As new architects, you play a crucial role in shaping resilient communities. Architecture is not just about building buildings; it’s about building communities and shaping lives.”

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