From Kenechukwu Onyekwuluje
Survey experts have called on members of the Young Surveyors Network (YSN) to embrace digital technology and innovation in their professional practice to remain relevant in an evolving global landscape.
The call was made during the 4th Southeast Camping of the YSN, Southeast Zone, held from April 16 to 18 at the Surveyor’s House, Amawbia, Anambra State. The event, themed “Beyond Coordinates: Technology, Relevance and the Future of Surveying – Smart Surveyors for a Smarter World: Innovation, Precision and Impact,” brought together participants from Imo, Abia, Ebonyi, and Enugu states.
Declaring the event open, the Zonal Chairman of YSN Southeast, Surveyor Ukanwa Samuel Ogwo (MNIS), described the theme as both timely and action-driven. He noted that while surveying has traditionally focused on coordinates, boundaries, and measurements, the profession is now being reshaped by emerging technologies.
“We are in an era where artificial intelligence, machine learning, drone mapping, LiDAR systems, satellite remote sensing, and real-time geospatial analytics are redefining the boundaries of our profession,” he said. “Surveyors must not only understand these tools but lead their application.”
Ogwo emphasized that relevance in today’s world requires adaptability, continuous learning, and innovation. He urged practitioners to position themselves as geospatial solution providers capable of delivering insights that support decision-making across sectors.
In his welcome address, the Anambra State Chairman of YSN, Surveyor Anyaegbunam C.D (MNIS), described the theme as a wake-up call for young professionals to go beyond traditional roles.
“For too long, surveyors have been seen as individuals who only plant beacons and provide coordinates. We are more than that—we are data custodians, spatial analysts, and solution providers,” he said. “This camp challenges us to embrace technology and redefine the future of surveying.”
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Surveyors (NIS), Anambra State, Surveyor High Chief Gabby Okeke (FNIS), noted that surveying is no longer confined to boundaries and beacons.
“The world has moved beyond coordinates into an era driven by UAVs, artificial intelligence, GNSS, and digital twins. Our relevance will be measured by how well we adapt and innovate,” he said.
He encouraged participants to take full advantage of the training, network widely, and acquire skills that will keep the Southeast competitive nationally.
One of the awardees, Surveyor Chukwuemeka Donatus (FNIS), described the programme as highly educative and essential for young practitioners. He advised them to remain committed to ethical standards and avoid fraudulent practices that could jeopardize their careers.
Similarly, the National Internal Auditor of NIS, Surveyor Dr. Chukwubueze Onwuzuluigbo, stressed the importance of foundational knowledge in surveying while exploring advanced applications.
“If you do not have accurate coordinates, your work is incomplete. However, ‘Beyond Coordinates’ means expanding our practice to include courtroom presentations, advanced mapping, and real-world problem-solving,” he said.
The Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Surveyor Obiora Ifechukwu Eugene (MNIS), noted that recent technological innovations, particularly satellite-based instruments, have significantly transformed surveying practice, making tools more accessible to younger professionals.
The three-day event featured a range of activities including a health walk, courtesy visits, courtroom simulations, technical sessions on AI-assisted AutoCAD, Geo-flow lectures, instrument exhibitions, and award presentations.
Dignitaries at the event included Surveyor Chigbo Okeke (MNIS), Surveyor General of Anambra State, Surveyor A.C. Indigo, Surveyor I.K. Ajogu, and Surveyor Eze H. Chukwuemeka, among others.