10/04/2024
BOOSTING SUCCESS BY INVESTING IN QUANTITY SURVEYORS AND EQUIPPING THEM
By Chanoda Ngwira F
The surge in infrastructure development across Zambia has sparked an unprecedented demand for quantity surveyors, encompassing projects from dams and power stations to roads and shopping malls. However, the shortage of quantity surveyors presents a significant hurdle to the timely and efficient completion of these projects, highlighting a pressing infrastructure gap that warrants immediate attention.
This surge in demand underscores the necessity for a sustained focus on quantity surveyors in Zambia's future endeavors. Hence, it is imperative for the Zambian Government to adopt a proactive stance and commit substantial resources to bolstering this profession. Such investments not only yield individual benefits but also offer advantages for both the private sector and the government in terms of maximizing value for money in infrastructure investments.
Education emerges as a pivotal component in this initiative. The Zambian Government should spearhead the establishment of diploma and university-level programs tailored to nurturing highly skilled quantity surveyors. These educational endeavors should equip professionals with the requisite expertise to deliver infrastructure projects of impeccable quality, within budgetary constraints, and adhering to strict timelines.
Effective cost management is indispensable for project success. Quantity surveyors, with their adeptness in cost estimation and financial analysis, play an indispensable role in curbing cost overruns and ensuring financial stability. Their meticulous attention to detail and precise estimations are indispensable in maintaining project viability.
A concerted effort is imperative to elevate the profession of quantity surveying in Zambia. The Zambian Government, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, must acknowledge the significance of this profession and allocate resources towards enhancing education and training programs. This strategic investment not only addresses the infrastructure gap but also nurtures a proficient workforce capable of delivering successful projects.
Furthermore, in an era characterized by technological advancement, the construction industry must embrace innovation, with quantity surveyors being no exception. Adapting to modern tools and software is crucial for enhancing productivity and efficiency. Therefore, the Zambian Government should prioritize continuous training and reequipping of quantity surveyors to ensure they remain at the vanguard of technological advancements.
In summary, Zambia's infrastructure boom underscores the critical need for quantity surveyors. However, the shortfall in supply poses significant challenges to project delivery. Therefore, investing in education, training, and technology for quantity surveyors is paramount for bridging this gap and steering Zambia towards sustainable development through efficient infrastructure projects.
