The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) Ghana has officially inaugurated a Student Chapter at Cape Coast Technical University (CCTU), marking a significant step toward strengthening professional engineering development among students.
The inauguration ceremony, held on Friday, March 6, 2026, was under the theme “Surviving and Thriving in Engineering.” The event was chaired by the Dean of the School of Engineering, Eric Awere.
Leading the formal inauguration was the National President of IET Ghana, Wonder S. Davor, who delivered a keynote address emphasizing discipline and commitment as the foundation of success in engineering.
According to him, engineering is less about brilliance and more about dedication and structured thinking.
“Engineering is not for geniuses; it is for disciplined thinkers. It demands discipline, not brilliance. Engineering students do not find time; they create time,” Ing. Davor told the gathering.
He also highlighted the professional advantage of joining the student chapter, explaining that graduates who are not members of such chapters must work under a licensed professional engineer for a minimum of three years before qualifying for professional certification. Practising engineering without certification, he stressed, constitutes a legal offence.
“When you complete school without being part of the student chapter, you would have to work under a professional engineer for at least three years before you can obtain your certification. Being a member gives you the opportunity to join immediately after school. This is just one of the many benefits,” he said.
Delivering remarks as both Dean and Chairperson of the event, Prof. Awere reaffirmed CCTU’s commitment to aligning engineering education with professional and industry standards.
He noted that more than 40 faculty members at the School of Engineering are affiliated with IET Ghana and pledged institutional support for the new chapter.
“As the Dean, I make a solemn pledge to support the survival and growth of the IET CCTU Student Chapter. We can only achieve this by working together,” Prof. Awere stated.
The event also featured an afternoon workshop session with presentations from engineering academics and practitioners.
Engineer Dr Oteng Peprah challenged students to cultivate an engineering mindset defined by structured problem-solving and innovation rather than simply repairing problems.
Meanwhile, Engineer Dr Mrs. Ernestina Degraft, Head of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, provided students with a practical roadmap for professional success, stressing the importance of internships, mentorship, and networking as essential components of engineering education.
The chapter’s patron, Engineer Professor, Charles Emmanuel Oppon, encouraged students to broaden their perspective on engineering careers, pointing to opportunities in artificial intelligence, renewable energy, robotics, entrepreneurship, research, and public policy.
“Engineering is not just a profession; it is a platform for innovation, service, and transformation. Dare to explore opportunities you may not yet see,” Prof. Oppon urged.
The programme concluded with remarks from the First Vice President of IET Ghana, John Ebo Bentoom, who encouraged students to remain committed to their academic and professional development.
“Learn hard and graduate as a professional engineer from IET. Let us continue growing Ghana and bridging the knowledge gap,” he advised.
The inauguration of the student chapter is expected to enhance mentorship, professional networking, and industry exposure for engineering students at CCTU, while strengthening the link between academia and professional engineering practice in Ghana.
Story By Bertha Egyirba Oppon