'Corruption is killing our infrastructure' - Professor Kumi Boateng

The Dean of the Faculty of Geosciences and Environmental Studies at the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT), Professor Bernard Kumi Boateng, has warned that corruption and the failure of engineers to uphold professional standards are contributing to the rapid deterioration of infrastructure in Ghana.

Speaking during activities to mark World Engineering Day at UMaT, Professor Kumi Boateng urged engineers to remain committed to integrity and quality in their work, stressing that the future of national development depends heavily on the standards maintained within the profession.

According to him, some infrastructure projects, particularly roads, fail prematurely because engineers sometimes compromise professional ethics. “As engineers, we must do our work well and avoid taking bribes so that the roads that are constructed will last,” he said.

He pointed to instances where roads begin to deteriorate shortly after completion, describing the situation as unacceptable in a profession that plays a critical role in national development.

Professor Kumi Boateng also stressed the importance of applying proper engineering standards in the design and implementation of projects.

He noted that systems meant to solve problems, such as traffic lights and road designs, sometimes end up creating more challenges because they are poorly planned or executed.

According to him, engineers working within the built environment must collaborate and ensure that professional standards guide their work at all times.

“We must apply the standards and work together for the betterment of our nation,” he said.

Beyond professional practice, the professor also called for reforms in how young people are raised and educated, saying Ghana must encourage curiosity and creativity among children if it hopes to produce innovative engineers.

He explained that many children are discouraged from exploring their environment because of strict parenting approaches that prioritise punishment over learning.

Professor Kumi Boateng also urged educators and parents to remove the perception that mathematics is only for exceptionally intelligent students, noting that such beliefs discourage many young people from pursuing careers in science and engineering.

Professor Kumi Boateng emphasised that engineers remain central to national development, explaining that modern infrastructure and essential services depend on the profession. From extracting minerals to building roads, bridges, and power systems, he said engineers play a decisive role in shaping the country’s economic future.

“Engineers are the people who make things happen. We bring things out of nothing,” he said.

He therefore urged engineers to remain committed to innovation, integrity, and collaboration to drive Ghana’s development and ensure sustainable infrastructure for future generations.

The General Manager, Engineering & Services at Tesla Electrical & Auto Ltd, Richmond Botchway, also called on Ghana to prioritise engineering innovation and nurture young talent if the country is to fully benefit from the vast opportunities in the engineering sector.

According to him, engineers remain central to global development and technological advancement, adding that modern society cannot function without engineering.

Nearly every aspect of human life, from infrastructure and communication to defence and manufacturing, relies heavily on the work of engineers.

“The world we live in cannot survive without engineers. When you talk about technology, infrastructure, or even national security, engineers are at the centre of it,” he said.