How To Become A Licensed Land Surveyor In Ghana

Becoming a licensed surveyor in Ghana is a rewarding journey that requires a combination of education, practical experience, and a commitment to upholding professional standards. The Ghana Institute of Surveyors (GhIS) is mandated to award licenses to surveyors in Ghana, and aspiring surveyors must navigate several key steps to achieve their goals.

To be on the list of licensed surveyors in Ghana, one must first be a graduate member holding at least two years of post-graduate diploma from an institution or any other relevant qualifications recognized by the Ghana Institute of Surveyors (GhIS). In this comprehensive article, we outline the various certifications and training you must go through to become a licensed surveyor in Ghana.

Who Is A Surveyor?

A land surveyor is a professional who measures and marks land to create accurate maps and plans. They use a variety of tools and technology to do their work, including surveying instruments, GPS, and computer-aided design (CAD) software. 

A land surveyor practically deals with the art of determining the terrestrial positions of points, angles, distance, and multidimensional points on an assigned piece of land to make precise estimates about land for making maps and other governmental purposes. 

The training of land surveyors in Ghana is mainly related to civil disciplines. Some land surveyors receive informal training through work experience, which limits their development and opportunities. Surveyors are employed in a variety of industries, including construction, engineering, and real estate. 

Surveyors must have a strong understanding of mathematics and geometry. They must also be able to use a variety of tools and technology accurately. Surveyors must be able to work independently and as part of a team. They must also be able to communicate effectively with clients and other professionals.

Functions of Land Surveyors in Ghana

In most cases, land surveyors work in government institutions in Ghana. They are mandated to perform land investigations, preliminary investigations, and other related land cases and tasks. 

• Land surveyors measure land and create maps and plans
• They use surveying instruments to measure angles, distances, and elevations
• They help design and set property boundaries for easy identification
• They help resolve land disputes
• Conduct research and develop new surveying techniques

Eligibility Requirement of Land Surveyors in Ghana

For becoming a land surveyor, the minimum required qualification is to have a first-degree or higher certification course in any of the core fields recognized by the council of the Ghana Institute of Surveyors (GhIS).

In the case of a first degree in a core field only, the candidate must undergo a 2-year training program at an approved firm with a written examination and/or a report as appropriate. If passed, the candidate will attend an interview as appropriate.

In the case of a first degree in the core field and a masters in the core field, the candidate will undergo 1-year training at an approved firm with a written examination and/or a report as appropriate. If passed, the candidate will attend an interview as appropriate.

However, suppose the candidate has a first degree in a core field, a master's degree in a core field, and a Ph.D. in a core or non-core field. The candidate will undergo 1-year training at an approved firm and submit a report or research as appropriate. Finally, the candidate will attend an interview as appropriate.

Steps to Become a Land Surveyor in Ghana

Some of the key steps that are to be taken if an individual decides to become a land surveyor in Ghana are listed below for your reference:

1. Educational Requirements

2. Practical Training

3. Licensing Examinations

4. Application for Licensing

5. Professional Interview

Types of Membership at Ghana Institute of Surveyors

Graduate Member: To qualify, a candidate shall be the holder of a relevant degree or higher diploma from an institution recognized by the Council. 

Full Member: To qualify, a candidate must have been a Graduate Member for at least two years and hold a post-graduate diploma from the institution or any other relevant qualifications recognized by the institution.

Technician Member: To qualify as a technician member, you must be the holder of a relevant Diploma from an institution recognized by the Council

Affiliate Member: An applicant for graduate membership must have a qualification in the relevant discipline from an institution recognized by the Council or work experience in the surveying profession.

Student Member: To qualify, a candidate must be a full-time student taking a relevant course recognized by the Council.

Benefits of Becoming a Land Surveyor in Ghana

Though the qualifications and procedures for becoming a land surveyor in Ghana look tedious, so do the advantages of working as a surveyor in Ghana. Surveyors in Ghana have first-hand information on lands for sale in Ghana. The following are the many benefits of becoming a land surveyor in Ghana:

Approved land surveying courses in Ghana

The following are the core subjects of the divisions approved by the council of the Ghana Institute of Surveyors for you to successfully earn a badge as a licensed surveyor in Ghana.

• Geodesy and Global Positioning Systems
• Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing
• Geographic and Land Information Systems
• Topographic Mapping, Engineering, and Mine 
• Cadastre/Survey Rules and Regulations

Conclusion

The Ghana Institute of Surveyors (GhIS) plays a pivotal role in maintaining the professional standards of the field. Aspiring surveyors should approach each stage of the journey with a commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of the responsibilities associated with land surveying in the Ghanaian context. The path to becoming a licensed surveyor in Ghana is a challenging yet fulfilling endeavour that ensures the development of skilled professionals who contribute to the effective management and sustainable use of the country's land resources.