Accra, Dec. 2, GNA – Mr Foster Osae-Akonnor, President of the Ghana Institute of Architects (GIA), has appealed to the government to ensure qualified architects are present in the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) across the country.
Speaking at the Institute’s 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Accra, he observed that challenges in the built environment were partly due to unavailability of architects in the 261 MMDAs nationwide.
Mr Osae-Akonnor cited challenges such as unplanned urbanisation, neglect of developmental controls, and general disregard for architectural expertise as some challenges in the industry.
The AGM brought together architects and allied professionals on the theme: ” Economic Significance of a Quality Built Environment.”
Mr Osae-Akonnor reiterated the Institute’s commitment to advancing “the arts and science of architecture,” and urged the government to address challenges.
“The quality of a nation’s built environment directly influences its wealth, health, and well-being.
“We, therefore, urge the Government to take pragmatic steps to resolve this issue and engage the services of Architects in every MMDA,” he stated.
The gathering was an opportunity for members to deliberate on the dynamics and future of their operations.
Dr. Maxwell Opoku-Afaru, First Deputy Governor, stressed the significance of quality built environment,” urging the professionals to build sustainable structures, maximise space, promote tourism, attract investment, among other benefits.
“A quality built environment has numerous economic benefits, including increased property values, improved productivity, enhanced economic growth, reduced maintenance costs, attracting businesses and talent, increase tourism and revenue, improved public health and enhance quality of life, as such, it is imperative that architects are given the necessary support to operate,” he stated.
Touching on the economic and social benefits on Architecture, he cited the new Bank of Ghana Head office known as ‘The Bank Square’, as one of the handiworks of architecture, which has gained much attention.
The AGM included an exhibition and a panel discussion on the economic significance of a quality built environment.
Panellists included Mr David Kojo Derban, Dr. Irene Appeaning Addo, Dr. P. Eshun Jr, and other top architects.
GNA