News in 2025
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FIG highlights global surveying role at Romanian week and welcomes new
chamber
21-25 October 2025, Timisoara, Romania
FIG had a dynamic and multi-level presence at the 6th Romanian
Surveying Week 2025
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).
Romanian Young Surveyors Conference
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 commission activities
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.
Historic milestone of a new chamber
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:
- Institutional strength and a stronger voice in national
dialogue.
- Quality assurance through high professional standards and Continuing
Professional Development (CPD).
- Professional recognition and the safeguarding of the right of signature ('drept de semnătură').
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."
Photo gallery
6th Romanian Surveying Week 2025 conference website
FIG Vice President Michalis Kalogiannakis
5 November 2025
