2023 ANNUAL CONFERENCE REPORT
The Zambia Institute of Quantity Surveyors
(ZIQS) hosted its 2023 Annual General
Meeting and Conference from November
30th to December 1st at the Lusaka Legacy
Hilltop Resort in Lusaka. The conference
theme, "Innovative Technologies – A New
Approach to Effective Delivery of Services,"
attracted 100 delegates nationwide. The
agenda included 10 paper presentations
aimed at exploring the transformative
potential of innovative technologies in the
construction sector.
Executive Summary:
The 2023 Annual General Meeting and Conference hosted by the Zambia Institute of Quantity Surveyors (ZIQS) convened industry stakeholders at the Lusaka Legacy Hilltop Resort from November 30th to December 1st. With a theme centered on "Innovative Technologies – A New Approach to Effective Delivery of Services," the conference attracted 100 delegates nationwide.
Key discussions revolved around the transformative potential of technology in construction, with ZIQS President Kunda Chansa and esteemed guests emphasizing its integration. Deliberations also focused on the Draft ZIQS Bill, aiming to clarify industry standards and regulatory frameworks.
The conference concluded with the nomination of the 2024 ZIQS Executive, with Musole Timothy elected as President. A comprehensive handover report highlighted the institution's 2023 activities and financial status. Acknowledgments were extended to supporting institutions and attendees, despite noted challenges such as late preparations and rescheduling.
Critical insights emphasized the urgency of enacting the ZIQS Bill, maintaining professional integrity, and enhancing industry visibility. The imperative of embracing modern technologies, fostering partnerships, and investing in research for project effectiveness emerged as key imperatives.
In summary, the 2023 ZIQS Conference showcased a commitment to advancing the quantity surveying profession in Zambia, setting a strategic course for innovation, collaboration, and regulatory clarity in the construction sector.
Empowering Quantity Surveyors: A Transformative Journey
Introduction: In the dynamic arena of the construction industry, Quantity Surveyors play a pivotal role in ensuring meticulous cost management, procurement efficiency, and robust financial control. The Zambia Institute of Quantity Surveyors (ZIQS) embarked on a transformative odyssey from 2019 to 2023, supported by the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing, and Urban Development under the distinguished leadership of Honourable Minister Eng. Charles Milupi MP.
Empowering Quantity Surveyors: During this epoch, ZIQS launched a strategic initiative to bolster its membership base, advocate for the invaluable contributions of Quantity Surveyors across diverse sectors, and champion inclusivity through the Law for Quantity Surveyors. Recognizing the underutilization of Quantity Surveyors within the industry, the institute endeavored to highlight their nuanced roles and indispensable contributions.
Marketing and Advocacy Initiatives: A pivotal realization during this period was the necessity of targeted marketing campaigns to disseminate awareness about the instrumental roles and multifaceted capabilities of Quantity Surveyors. Through advocacy endeavors, ZIQS aimed to dispel misperceptions and illuminate the indispensable impact of Quantity Surveyors in project fruition, fostering a profound understanding and appreciation for their contributions.
Strategic Partnerships and Outreach: Central to ZIQS’s strategy was the cultivation of robust relationships with industry stakeholders, governmental entities, and educational institutions. By fostering collaborations and knowledge dissemination, the institute positioned Quantity Surveyors as indispensable linchpins in propelling innovation and excellence within the industry, aiming to ameliorate their status and recognize them as vital assets.
Conference Focus on Innovative Technologies: At the ZIQS Annual AGM, President Kunda Chansa highlighted the conference’s focus on the transformative impact of innovative technologies in service delivery. Esteemed guests like Professor Paul Makasa and Fidelis Kabwiri emphasized the importance of incorporating technology in the construction sector. Attendees were encouraged to engage in meaningful conversations, fostering collaborations to explore the vast possibilities offered by innovative technologies in reshaping service delivery.
In conclusion, ZIQS’s journey from 2019 to 2023 underscores its commitment to empowering Quantity Surveyors, advocating for their recognition, and fostering collaborations to drive innovation in the construction industry.