Ghana Bolsters Technical Expertise Through New Nuclear Simulator and Spatial Intelligence Training for Surveyors

Ghana is making significant strides in professional and technical education by adopting cutting-edge technology and modernizing traditional practices to meet international standards. Central to this transformation is the acquisition of a unique nuclear power plant simulator at the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) and a strategic shift within the Land Surveying Division (LSD) of the Ghana Institution of Surveyors (GhIS). These initiatives aim to equip a new generation of Ghanaian professionals with the specialized skills necessary to drive national development and ensure safety in high-stakes industries.

The GAEC’s nuclear power plant simulator marks a major milestone in the country's preparation for its planned nuclear power program. As the only facility of its kind in Africa and one of only a few globally, the simulator provides a risk-free, controlled environment for personnel to practice complex operating procedures. According to Mr. George Kofi Appiah, a manager at the facility, the system is based on Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology, which incorporates passive safety measures and allows for simplified maintenance. The center is already serving as a regional hub for technical education, training not only Ghanaians but also participants from neighboring countries such as Nigeria and Kenya to build a workforce capable of safe nuclear operation.

Simultaneously, the surveying profession is undergoing a fundamental evolution to keep pace with the era of Artificial Intelligence. At the 2026 Annual Conference of the Land Surveying Division in Accra, themed "Advancing Land Surveying through Innovation, Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement," industry leaders called on professionals to move beyond traditional measurement and mapping. The conference emphasized the need for surveyors to provide "spatial intelligence"—actionable data and insights that can inform critical national planning and decision-making. This shift is seen as essential for maintaining the relevance of the profession in an increasingly digital and automated landscape.

Together, these developments highlight a broader trend of enhancing Ghana's educational infrastructure to support sophisticated infrastructure projects and data-driven governance. By investing in high-tech simulators and encouraging professional bodies to embrace innovation, the nation is positioning itself as a leader in technical training within the sub-region. These efforts ensure that as Ghana moves toward nuclear energy and more complex urban planning, it does so with a local workforce that is both highly skilled and internationally competitive.