Experts in the built industry have said that for professionals to be relevant in the 21st Century, they must lay the foundation of modern technologies and innovations in the architectural landscape, which will lead to a sustainable and progressive future.
They also observed that sharing cutting-edge research, industry trends, and best practices in architecture, as well as exchange of ideas will foster collaboration and enhance collective power to shape the emerging world.
They spoke at the 2023 Biennial General Meeting in Abuja, calling for action on sustainable urbanisation across the Commonwealth countries, which include developing access to health, education, food, shelter, peace and security.
In a presentation, President of Commonwealth Association of Architects, Peter Oborn, said developing countries, like Nigeria, are among those with the lowest ecological footprints worldwide.
On urbanisation prospects, Oborn said about 50 per cent of the projected increase will be in countries that developed environment policy. He urged professionals to carry out planning for climate change and rapid urbanisation to meet the emerging challenges.
“There is a perceived weakness in the policy in many commonwealth countries in terms of standards, implementation and enforcement. Still, there is a corresponding lack of educational and institutional capacity to grow the profession in these countries.”
Also, immediate past NIA President, Enyi Ben-Eboh, said there is lack of capacity in member countries, many of which are urbanising rapidly and are among the most vulnerable, calling for engagement of youths in technologies.
He explained, the theme: ‘Transition, Transformation and Sustainable Future,’ was born out of the need for architects to be at the forefront of climate change discussions on mitigation and adaptation.
“The global status report for buildings and construction released at the latest round of climate in COP 27 in Egypt revealed that the sector accounted for three per cent of energy demand and about 37 per cent of energy and process-related carbon dioxide emissions in 2021,” he said.
According to him, “We are all witnesses to the extreme and often unprecedented climate activities taking place around the globe and we must see what we can do to mitigate the negative consequences of our industries in this regard.”
In her contribution, newly elected NIA President, Mobolaji Adeniyi, said: “We will soon celebrate the achievements of the architectural community. From iconic landmarks to innovative and sustainable urban development, this will provide valuable insight into the diverse heritage of the nation’s capital.”
Adeniyi explained, “The current era of rapid urbanisation, environmental challenges, and technological advancements is crucial and architects will play a pivotal role in shaping our actions, and decisions we make that will have a profound impact on generations.”
