In a bid to address the evolving challenges posed by a rapidly changing technological landscape, the General Manager of Renewable Energy at Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), Valerie Agberagba, has called for a transformative shift in engineering education.
Emphasising the urgency of this paradigm change, Agberagba highlighted the importance of cultivating industry-relevant skills among graduates to effectively navigate the complexities of today’s interconnected world.
During the annual Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineering (NIMECHE) symposium and lecture series themed “Managing Engineering Profession in a Digital World: Developing and Exploring Value Chain,” Agberagba noted the diminishing effectiveness of traditional technical skills and conventional methods. She stressed that embracing new norms is essential to tackle societal and environmental challenges posed by an increasingly intricate and interconnected global environment.
Agberagba further expressed her concern over the lack of substantial investment in engineering education, asserting that the sector is ill-equipped to cater to the demands of the digital era.
She advocated for a more decisive and adaptable approach to regulations, calling for collaborative efforts among stakeholders.
Underscoring the rapid evolution of the engineering profession, Agberagba asserted that “engineers must strategically incorporate digital technologies into all aspects of their work to thrive in the fourth industrial revolution.”
She called for the reevaluation and restructuring of engineering education to produce graduates who can effectively contribute to the needs of industries.
To facilitate this transformation, Agberagba stated the importance of eliminating barriers and policies that hinder progress.
She also recommended that “government policies align with the advancements in engineering and technology.”
In her address, Agberagba highlighted the need for engineering faculties to collaborate and adapt to the changing landscape by leveraging digital technologies.
She stressed that “this approach would not only bolster production and manufacturing but also facilitate training for seamless adaptation.”
Agberagba further emphasised the need for a robust data management system capable of addressing cybersecurity challenges and optimizing project performance.
She outlined the tools ushered in by the digital revolution, including computer-aided design, simulation software, the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, robotics, computer-aided manufacturing, and blockchain technology, all of which have significantly transformed the engineering profession.
Funmilade Akingbagbohun, the National Chairman of NIMECHE, echoed the sentiment, stating that aspiring engineers must cultivate skills that align with industry demands.
She highlighted the importance of developing soft skills alongside traditional knowledge to enhance the employability of young engineers.
Rabiu Ali, the immediate past president of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), emphasised the critical role of training in ensuring prosperous engineering practice.
Ali asserted that collaborative efforts among engineering institutions, regulators, and stakeholders are imperative to enhance the capacity development of engineers and improve their contributions to society.
