NSE seeks new approaches to engineering education, patronage of professionals

To mobilise needed capacity for infrastructure and industrial development in African countries, the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has advised stakeholders to expose budding engineers to the right skills, training, and capacity development. NSE President, Mrs Margaret Oguntala, who made the call at the 2024 Conference of the Sierra Leone Institution of Engineers (SLIE), entitled: ‘Contemporary Approaches to Engineering Education and Practices’, explained that it is the duty of practitioners as critical stakeholders to ensure that upcoming engineers get the right training that prepares them to take over leadership roles in industries. She said the theme was timely and crucial for the advancement of the engineering profession in the rapidly evolving world, adding that it is the responsibility of practising engineers to ensure that education and practices of the profession align with the demands and challenges of today and the future. Oguntala argued that education is the bedrock upon which the future of the engineering profession is built; hence, educational systems must adopt contemporary methodologies that foster critical thinking, creativity, and practical skills. “By embracing modern teaching techniques, leveraging technology and promoting interdisciplinary learning, we can equip our young engineers and future leaders with the knowledge, as well as tools they need to solve complex problems and drive sustainable development. Collaboration and knowledge sharing among colleagues from different countries and disciplines can go a long way in achieving this purpose,” she said. She pointed out that the forum provides a platform for such interactions, enabling the engineers to learn from each other’s experiences and best practices. On efforts by the society to develop the profession, Oguntala said NSE has met the Minister of Education and sought buy-in on some of the initiatives for revitalising technical and foundational engineering education from the primary and secondary schools. She said: “Our talks covered a review of engineering curriculum in tertiary institutions to meet today’s reality and advancement. So, it appears like our two organisations, the SLIE and NSE are reasoning in the same direction.” She also reaffirmed the society’s commitment towards fostering strong ties with their counterparts across Africa and beyond, adding that “by working together we can tackle common challenges, share valuable insights and contribute to the socio-economic development of the countries. “Let us be inspired by the possibilities that lie ahead. Let us challenge ourselves to think beyond traditional boundaries and explore innovative solutions that will propel our profession to new heights.” MEANWHILE, the Chairman, NSE Ikeja Branch, Femi Adedotun, has called on the government across all levels to patronise indigenous engineers and use their skills and experiences in projects for economic development. He spoke at the 15th Olu Awoyinfa distinguished yearly lecture and induction of new members in Lagos. Adedotun harped on the need for unity and peaceful co-existence for the engineers to achieve their objectives and sustain the value and legacy of the founding fathers. He noted that the legacy of the late Awoyinfa in the development and growth of the engineering profession cannot be forgotten in a hurry. On the theme, ‘The Intersection of Engineering and Transportation Policy: Shaping the Future of Transportation in Lagos,’ Adedotun said transportation is the fourth leg of basic of human and economic needs in which engineering and engineers play a foremost role. Oguntala, who was represented by a past chairman of the branch, Olutosin Ogunmola, said the occasion is meant to reflect on the exemplary life of Olu Awoyinfa. “One thing that stood him out was his penchant for arriving at event venues on time. He led a life of dedication to good causes including the advancement of the engineering profession as exemplified in his initiation of NSE Ikeja branch amongst others,” Ogunmola added. The post NSE seeks new approaches to engineering education, patronage of professionals appeared first on Guardian Nigeria News.