The Institution of Engineering and Technology, Ghana (IET-GH), witnessed an emotional and inspiring moment as its outgoing President, Engr. Henry Kwadwo Boateng, delivered his final Annual General Meeting (AGM) address.
Speaking under the theme “Engineering Excellence for a Changing World,” Engr. Boateng used his farewell speech to reflect on the nation’s challenges, celebrate engineering achievements, and urge the next generation to uphold values that advance Ghana’s development.
Addressing a distinguished gathering of fellows, council members, government officials, and professionals, he described the AGM as more than a statutory engagement—calling it a moment of transition, renewal, and rededication to national service. He emphasized that Ghana’s progress hinges on the strength of its engineering leadership, especially at a time when rapid technological transformation and global pressures continue to shape economies and societies.
A candid reflection on national challenges
In one of the most striking portions of his speech, Engr. Boateng lamented the inefficiencies plaguing several state-owned enterprises—institutions he said once held promise but now struggle due to poor engineering oversight, weak leadership, and the corrosive influence of greed and corruption.
He argued that Ghana is not short of technical expertise; rather, it struggles with lapses in accountability and a culture that sometimes tolerates mediocrity.
“Where engineering excellence is ignored, development stalls; but where it is embraced, nations rise,” he declared.
Tema Oil Refinery: A symbol of what excellence can achieve
Citing a shining example of engineering leadership, Engr. Boateng praised Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) Managing Director Edmond Kombat and his team for the remarkable turnaround of the formerly distressed refinery.
He described TOR’s revival as proof that excellence is not dependent on abundant resources but on discipline, integrity, and the right mindset.
“With scarce resources, and at a time many had written off TOR, leadership changed, mindset changed, and excellence was prioritised,” he said.
“If excellence can revive a dying refinery, imagine what it can do for our power sector, water systems, and road networks.”
Excellence as a mindset
The outgoing President reminded members that engineering excellence goes beyond machines and technology. It embodies values—accountability, honesty, sustainability, and service to the public good. No innovation, he warned, can transform a society where greed overtakes conscience.
“Engineering excellence is a mindset,” he stressed, urging engineers to treat every project as a legacy entrusted to them for future generations.
A hopeful transition
As he prepares to hand over leadership, Engr. Boateng expressed optimism about IET-GH’s future. He praised the patriotism, competence, and dedication of its members and expressed confidence that his successor would carry the vision forward with courage and integrity.
“To my successor, you inherit an institution ready for new heights. Lead with conviction that engineering excellence is Ghana’s pathway to transformation,” he said, signalling a smooth and hopeful transition.
Gratitude and a final blessing
Engr. Boateng concluded with heartfelt appreciation to the Council, Secretariat, members, partners, and fellows who supported his tenure. He thanked the institution for the honour of leading it and called on all engineers to embrace a renewed sense of responsibility as Ghana navigates a rapidly changing world.
“The world is changing. Ghana must change. And we engineers must lead that change,” he said, drawing warm applause.
He ended with a simple yet powerful blessing: “May God bless you, may God bless IET-GH, and may God bless our dear nation, Ghana.”
As IET-GH prepares to welcome its new president, Engr. Henry Kwadwo Boateng’s parting message stands as both a challenge and an inspiration—a reminder that integrity and engineering excellence remain central to Ghana’s national progress.
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