GhIS Founders' Day Message

GHANA INSTITUTION OF SURVEYORS (GhIS)

Founders' Day Message

Celebrating our Legacy of Excellence

The Ghana Institution of Surveyors (GhIS) was formally established on 28th February 1969, evolving from the Ghana Branch of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). This historic milestone marked the beginning of a proudly independent professional body dedicated to advancing the science, practice, and ethics of surveying in Ghana.

Key Milestones

Founding (1969): GhIS was inaugurated following a resolution passed at the Annual General Meeting of the Ghana Branch of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors in 1969.

First President: The distinguished Surv. Henry Romulus Sawyer (Harry Sawyerr) was elected as the institution’s first president. He was re-elected in 1970 when the institution adopted a new constitution to guide its governance.

Professional Divisions: GhIS operates through three main professional divisions:

  • Land Surveying Division
  • Quantity Surveying Division
  • Valuation and Estate Surveying Division

Governing Council: The Governing Council remains the highest authority of the institution, responsible for policy formulation, direction, and oversight of all professional and administrative matters.

Objectives and Role

The institution was founded with a clear mission:

  • To advance knowledge in all branches of the surveying profession.
  • To promote the well-being, development, and recognition of its members.
  • To uphold professional ethics and integrity, ensuring public confidence in the work of surveyors.

Current Activities and Impact

Over five decades on, GhIS continues to shape the surveying profession and contribute to national development. Key initiatives include:

  • Advocacy: Leading the campaign for the passage of the Surveyors Council Bill, to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for practitioners.
  • Innovation: Promoting the adoption of cutting-edge geospatial technologies, digital valuation tools, and modern cost-estimation methods to build resilient, sustainable cities.
  • Professional Standards: Strengthening adherence to ethics, integrity, and continuous professional development, which remain the hallmark of the institution.

Leadership

The current President of GhIS is Surv. Kofi Obeng-Ayirebi, FGhIS, who continues to provide strategic leadership to the institution, guided by its vision of professional excellence and national service.

A Call to Reflection and Celebration

As we celebrate Founders’ Day, GhIS reflects with pride on our rich history, enduring legacy, and unwavering contribution to national development. This occasion also serves as a reminder of the responsibility that rests on every surveyor to uphold the highest professional standards while innovating for the future.

Happy Founders’ Day to all Surveyors!

Together, we honour our past, celebrate our present, and embrace the promise of tomorrow.

- The GhIS Executive Council