The Ghana Institution of Engineering (GhIE), in collaboration with the Engineering Council, has announced a decisive move to rid the industry of unlicensed engineering practitioners by July 2025.

The initiative is aimed at sanitising the profession and reinforcing public trust in the engineering sector.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Joy Business, President of the Ghana Institution of Engineering, Ing. Ludwig Annang Hesse, emphasised that the crackdown is part of a broader effort to uphold professional standards and ensure that only qualified and certified individuals are allowed to operate within the field.

“This exercise is not meant to be punitive, but rather to protect the integrity of the profession. We want to ensure that engineering in Ghana is practiced by licensed professionals who are accountable and competent,” Ing. Hesse stated.

The regulatory action is expected to target individuals and firms operating without valid licenses issued by the Engineering Council — the statutory body responsible for regulating engineering practice in Ghana.

Ing. Hesse noted that the presence of unlicensed practitioners not only undermines the credibility of the profession but also poses significant risks to public safety, especially in critical sectors such as construction, energy, and infrastructure.

“We are working closely with stakeholders to educate and inform the public, as well as practitioners, on the importance of licensing. Those who are not regularised by July 2025 will face sanctions, including the possibility of being barred from practice,” he warned.

The Ghana Institution of Engineering is also urging all engineering professionals to regularise their status and renew their licenses if necessary. The Council has already begun stakeholder consultations and public education campaigns to facilitate a smooth transition.

This move comes at a time when Ghana is witnessing increased infrastructure development and technological advancement — a period where professional engineering oversight is more critical than ever. Industry experts have praised the decision, saying it will help streamline operations, reduce substandard work, and enhance safety and compliance.