GIA completes 2026 Professional Practice Examinations, awaits regulatory certification

The Ghana Institute of Architects (GIA) has recently concluded the final phase of its 2026 Professional Practice Examinations for architects, with the subsequent results awaiting certification from the Architects Registration Council. Chief Examiner Professor Daniel Duah affirmed that the rigorous assessment process aims to certify only the most qualified and competent architects to practice in Ghana.

The examinations aim to evaluate candidates' preparedness for professional practice, emphasizing their readiness to make decisions that impact public safety, rather than their design capabilities. A total of 96 candidates applied for the 2026 examinations, a rise from the previous year, with 86 proceeding after the initial assessment.

The examinations consist of three stages, with candidates who advanced participating in two-week intensive workshops before taking written exams and attending post-examination interviews. GIA is drafting a manual to standardize policies and procedures for professional examinations, which will be submitted for approval. Feedback from industry and candidates has been largely positive, reinforcing GIA's commitment to maintaining high professional standards.

The institute urges architecture students to balance academic studies with industrial attachments, emphasizing the value of practical training for preparing students for professional life.