How to Become A Quantity Surveyor in Ghana

Introduction to Quantity Surveying in Ghana

Quantity surveying is a vital profession in the construction industry, responsible for managing and controlling construction costs. In Ghana, the demand for quantity surveyors is on the rise due to the country's rapid infrastructure development. As a quantity surveyor in Ghana, you will play a crucial role in ensuring that construction projects are completed within budget and on time.

Educational Paths and Requirements in Ghana

To become a quantity surveyor in Ghana, you typically need to possess a degree in a relevant field such as quantity surveying, construction management, or civil engineering. Some of the top universities in Ghana offering programs in quantity surveying and related fields include:

University of Ghana - Bachelor of Science in Quantity Surveying
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) - Bachelor of Science in Quantity Surveying and Construction Economics
Accra Technical University - Higher National Diploma (HND) in Building Technology
Central University - Bachelor of Science in Construction Management

These programs usually take four years to complete and cover topics such as construction technology, measurement and quantification, cost management, and project management.

Skills and Qualities Needed

To succeed as a quantity surveyor in Ghana, you will need to possess a combination of technical, business, and interpersonal skills. Some of the key skills and qualities required include:

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Excellent communication and negotiation skills
Ability to work accurately and attention to detail
Strong organizational and time management skills
Proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software and other construction management tools
Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines

Work Experience and Internship Opportunities

Gaining practical work experience is essential to becoming a successful quantity surveyor in Ghana. Many universities in Ghana offer internship opportunities as part of their programs, which can provide valuable hands-on experience. You can also seek out internships or volunteer opportunities with construction companies, consulting firms, or government agencies to gain experience and build your network.

Professional Certifications and Licensing

In Ghana, quantity surveyors can obtain professional certification through the Ghana Institute of Surveyors (GIS). The GIS offers a professional diploma in quantity surveying, which requires a combination of academic qualifications and work experience. To become a licensed quantity surveyor in Ghana, you will need to meet the requirements set by the GIS and pass a professional exam.

Career Progression and Advancement Possibilities

With experience and professional certification, quantity surveyors in Ghana can progress to senior roles such as senior quantity surveyor, project manager, or construction manager. You can also specialize in a particular area of quantity surveying, such as cost management or project management. With further education and training, you can also move into related fields such as real estate development or construction law.

Salary Expectations of Quantity Surveyor in Ghana

The salary expectations for quantity surveyors in Ghana vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and industry. However, here are some approximate salary ranges in Ghana Cedis (GHS):

Entry-level quantity surveyor: GHS 3,500 - GHS 5,000 per month
Experienced quantity surveyor: GHS 6,000 - GHS 10,000 per month
Senior quantity surveyor: GHS 10,000 - GHS 15,000 per month

Job Market Outlook

The job market outlook for quantity surveyors in Ghana is positive, with a high demand for skilled professionals in the construction industry. The Ghanaian government has implemented several initiatives to boost infrastructure development, which is expected to drive growth in the construction sector. As a result, quantity surveyors with the right skills and qualifications can expect to find employment opportunities in a range of industries, including construction, consulting, and government.

Challenges and Rewards

As a quantity surveyor in Ghana, you can expect to face challenges such as managing construction costs, meeting deadlines, and dealing with complex projects. However, the rewards of a career in quantity surveying can be significant, including:

Opportunities to work on high-profile construction projects
Competitive salaries and benefits
Professional development and advancement opportunities
The satisfaction of seeing a project come to life

Tips for Success in this Field

To succeed as a quantity surveyor in Ghana, here are some tips:

Stay up-to-date with industry trends and developments
Develop strong technical and business skills
Build a strong network of contacts in the industry
Consider obtaining professional certification through the GIS
Be prepared to work hard and be flexible in your career