The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has initiated a specialized Skills Training program aimed at retraining 60,000 young engineers to tackle contemporary engineering challenges and advocated for a transition to alternative energy sources to foster sustainable development.
During the unveiling of its training manual at the World Engineering Day 2024 themed “Engineering Solutions for a Sustainable World” in Abuja, NSE President Margaret Aina Oguntala revealed this significant development.
World Engineering Day, established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) General Conference, serves to honor engineers worldwide and raise awareness of their contributions to national development.
In her address, Oguntala emphasized the NSE’s commitment to enhancing the professional capabilities of Nigerian engineers to contribute effectively to critical infrastructure development and national advancement.
She highlighted the importance of engineering innovations in mass communication and improving human well-being, stressing the need for engineers to address global economic, social, and humanitarian challenges.
Oguntala announced the launch of the Specialized Skills Training for Young Engineers, a year-long program in collaboration with the Nigerian Content Development and Management Board. The initiative aims to train 60,000 young engineers across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, starting with a course on Cyber Security and Ethical Hacking.
Prof. Abubakar Sambo, in his presentation on “Bridging the electricity access gaps for sustainable development,” underscored Africa’s low electricity access and suggested the adoption of uranium, wind, and coal to address energy gaps in Nigeria.
Engr. Ikotun Adewale, MD/CEO of Automation and Engineering Academy Ltd, highlighted Nigeria’s abundant compressed natural gas (CNG) reserves and called for infrastructural investment to boost production and usage, advocating for more engineers to convert vehicles to CNG for a cleaner and more affordable energy solution.
The NSE’s initiative and advocacy underscore the importance of investing in the development of skilled manpower and exploring alternative energy sources to drive sustainable development in Nigeria.
