News in 2025
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FIG’s representation at the event
in Romania was strong,
including FIG Vice President Michalis Kalogiannakis and the leadership
of two critical technical Commissions: Dimo Todorovski, Chair of
Commission 2, and Charles Atakora, Vice Chair of Commission 8 (pictured). This
joint presence underscored FIG's commitment to professional regulation,
education, and spatial development in the region.
FIG Vice President Michalis Kalogiannakis conveyed the FIG Council’s message of support and congratulated the organizers Mircea Afrăsinei, Cornel Păunescu, and Iaroslav Zifceac for their vision. The event was recognized as a significant platform for promoting the surveyor's role in sustainable development.
At the opening ceremony, FIG Vice President Michalis Kalogiannakis supported the main theme “Geospatial technologies for sustainable development of agriculture and built environment”. He emphasized that the professional identity must evolve: "Our core role is not just to measure, but to provide the necessary spatial intelligence for critical decision-making. Surveyors are the custodians of geospatial data; without our accurate data on land, property, and infrastructure, governments cannot effectively address climate change, housing crises, or food security." He linked the profession's work to the successful achievement of the 17 UN sustainable development goals (SDGs).
At the Romanian Young Surveyors Conference (RYSC) opening ceremony, FIG Vice President Michalis Kalogiannakis described the role of surveyors in solving global challenges and the power of collaboration. Also about the need for problem-solving leadership rather than merely seeking titles, with the ability to think strategically, collaborate, and inspire is what will make you true leaders. He announced the active efforts by the FIG Council toward the institutionalization of the global Young Surveyors Network (YSN), aimed at ensuring "clear rules, transparency, and accountability" worldwide.
FIG's
comprehensive presence was reinforced by the specialized technical
sessions and the support for the profession's legal framework. FIG
Commission 2 on professional education and FIG Commission 8 on
spatial
planning and development co-organized important sessions, highlighting
the interdisciplinary approach;
One round table session was on 'Global challenges in academia and how they are affecting Romania', led by FIG Commission 2 chair Dimo Todorovski, discussing critical educational sector issues.
A second round table session 'Advancements in satellite data processing and applications: From AI-assisted analysis to geodetic solutions', led by FIG Commission 8 vice chair Charles Atakora, focused on the application of advanced geospatial methods, including artificial intelligence analysis on satellite data (Sentinel-2, Beidou) to improve precision agriculture and environmental applications.
A
central theme in all FIG interventions was the recognition of Colegiul Geodezilor din România
(CGR) which is the new chamber of surveyors via
law 267/2024. FIG Vice President Michalis Kalogiannakis hailed the
enactment as a historic step towards professional autonomy, emphasizing
that the CGR guarantees:
Concluding his address, he extended a warm encouragement to
attendees to embrace the new vision and actively participate in the new
Romanian chamber: "The future of your profession is brighter than
ever. FIG is your global home, and we strongly encourage you to actively
participate in our commissions and share the success of the Romanian
model with the rest of the world."
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6th Romanian Surveying Week 2025 conference website
FIG Vice President Michalis Kalogiannakis
5 November 2025
