As part of its 20th anniversary celebrations, the Licensed Surveyors Association of Ghana (LiSAG) has commissioned a new conference facility, the LiSAG Villa, and hosted a seminar to reflect on two decades of impact in the surveying profession.

The commissioning forms part of a series of activities leading up to the association’s anniversary climax in September.

The new Conference Hall, fully furnished, has a seating capacity of 350, while the LiSAG Villa features a modern two-story apartment, providing comfortable and functional spaces for professional gatherings and accommodation.

Chairperson of the Property Committee, Ls Stephen Djaba, formally received the LiSAG Apartment and Conference Facility on behalf of the association, describing it as a historic milestone that gives LiSAG a permanent professional home.

He noted that the facility will serve as a hub for mentoring young surveyors, promoting professional excellence, and shaping policies to strengthen the role of surveying in national development.

Stephen Djaba also commended the association’s leadership and the developer for their dedication in bringing the project to fruition.

President of LiSAG, Lic. Surv. Dr. Samuel Larbi Darko, said the association has evolved into a key professional body influencing policy and contributing to national development over the past 20 years.

He stressed that while the anniversary is a moment of celebration, it also presents an opportunity for reflection and repositioning.

According to him, the profession must confront inefficiencies and uphold the highest ethical standards to remain relevant.

Dr. Darko highlighted major achievements, including the construction of the new conference facility, the introduction of GNSS training, and the implementation of mentorship programmes for young surveyors.

He, however, acknowledged persistent challenges such as policy constraints, delays in plan approvals, and unethical practices, urging members to remain united in strengthening the profession.

A Director at the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, Ls Jones Ofori Boadu, underscored the critical role of surveyors in land administration, infrastructure development, urban planning, and environmental management.

He described the new conference hall and guest house as more than just a physical structure, calling it “a symbol of vision, collaboration, and institutional growth.”

According to him, the facility will serve as a centre for professional dialogue, knowledge sharing, mentorship, and innovation, while inspiring future generations of surveyors.

He commended LiSAG’s leadership for their foresight, unity, and sustained commitment in delivering the project, and encouraged members to embrace technological advancement, ethical practice, and strategic partnerships to meet the evolving demands of the profession.

Acting Director of the Survey and Mapping Division at the Lands Commission, Naa Seidu Zakari Abu, also lauded LiSAG for its contributions to national development over the past two decades.

He called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to tackle challenges such as boundary disputes, unauthorised surveys, and land fraud, while stressing the importance of adopting modern tools and technology in surveying.

He added that the new facility will provide a vital platform for professional engagement, mentorship, and knowledge sharing, and features a dedicated room honouring the contributions of Kumbun Naa Viri II.

By ZEENATU ABUBAKAR, Accra