The new President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Engr Margaret Aina Oguntala has expressed the commitment of the NSE to pursue innovation and technological advancement that would accelerate the growth and development of the country .
She stated that the NSA under her leadership will encourage research, support startups, and champion engineering solutions that will address Nigeria’s unique challenges and position Nigeria as a hub for engineering.
Speaking after her Investiture as the 34th President of NSE yesterday in Abuja, Oguntala urged the federal government to formulate policies for fair welfare packages/hazard allowances for engineers and implement with sincerity of purpose, the Executive Order 5 for Planning and Execution of Projects, Promotion of Nigerian Content in Contracts and Science, Engineering and Technology.
She appealed to the government to promote STEM education for more students to pursue careers in engineering and also create an enabling environment for collaborations between engineering companies and universities for developing new technologies as no Nation can grow without an intentional support of Research and Development.
Oguntala said that the NSE is prioritising Vocational Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (VSTEM) education to empower future leaders adding that strategic endowments will support dedicated institutions in ensuring the thriving of STEM education for a generation of STEM leaders.
She urged the government to nominate Engineers for the “Policy Coordination, Evaluation, Monitoring, and Delivery Unit which Mr. President announced in his 1st January, 2024 speech.
The new president observed that the mission of the the body is to rebirth the NSE for the growth, empowerment, and advancement of engineering in Nigeria as well as bridge divides, empower the youth, harness innovation, and advocate for the transformative power of engineering.
She noted that Founded in 1958, the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has evolved into a symbol of resilience, progress, and unwavering commitment to engineering excellence
She said, ‘Our history is a testament to the mission set forth by our founders — to shift engineering from a tool of British control to an instrument fostering self-reliance among Nigerians. Over the years, the NSE has weathered adversity, emerging as a beacon of progress.
“From its modest beginning with 40 members in 1959, the NSE has grown exponentially to 63,905.
“With 86 branches globally and 26 professional institutions operating as Divisions within the NSE, we have expanded our capacity for innovation and impact, carry a profound sense of responsibility and an unwavering belief in our collective potential. We begin a new chapter that is inclusive, innovative, and forward-thinking.”
SOURCE: GUARDIAN
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