Bimbola Dada, an electrical engineer, emphasized the importance of green practices in engineering during her presentation at the APWEN Lagos Summit. She highlighted the role of sustainable engineering in building resilience against environmental challenges and securing a better future. Dada urged engineers to incorporate eco-friendly materials, renewable energy solutions, and robust designs into their projects to ensure long-term viability. She also advocated for locally-driven solutions that cater to specific community needs while simultaneously nurturing local expertise and strengthening the capacity of the local engineering industry. Dada stressed the significance of knowledge transfer between generations of engineers, suggesting collaborative projects as a means of fostering skill development, mutual respect, and collaborative innovation. She further recommended regular dialogues, workshops, and panel discussions as platforms for exchanging ideas and learning from diverse perspectives.
Dada’s emphasis on green practices reflects the increasing recognition of the crucial role of sustainability in engineering. Incorporating eco-friendly materials minimizes the environmental footprint of engineering projects, reducing the depletion of natural resources and minimizing pollution. Utilizing renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydro power, reduces reliance on fossil fuels, mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and promoting energy independence. Designing structures with resilience in mind ensures their ability to withstand extreme weather events and other environmental challenges, safeguarding communities and investments. Promoting locally-driven solutions empowers communities to address their specific needs, fostering self-reliance and creating opportunities for local economic growth.
The theme of the summit, “Engineering Legacies: Bridging Generations, Building the Future,” underscored the importance of intergenerational collaboration in the field of engineering. Dada’s call for joint projects between seasoned engineers and younger professionals emphasizes the value of mentorship and knowledge sharing. Seasoned engineers can impart their wealth of experience and practical knowledge to the next generation, while younger professionals can contribute fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. This synergistic relationship fosters a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the engineering profession.
Atinuke Owolabi, Chairman of APWEN Lagos, echoed Dada’s sentiments, encouraging young engineers to actively engage with their more experienced counterparts, seeking guidance and committing to excellence. She called upon senior professionals to embrace their role as mentors, providing opportunities and investing in the future of engineering. Owolabi emphasized the significance of the summit’s theme, highlighting the role of past achievements, innovations, and sacrifices as the foundation for future leadership. She stressed the importance of learning from past experiences, mentoring the next generation, and upholding the core values of integrity, innovation, and service within the engineering community. Owolabi expressed gratitude to the keynote speaker, guest speaker, moderator, and role models present at the summit, emphasizing the strength that comes from collaboration, knowledge sharing, and a shared commitment to ethical and innovative engineering practices.
Owolabi’s remarks underscore the importance of mentorship and intergenerational collaboration in fostering a thriving engineering community. Mentorship programs provide young engineers with valuable guidance and support as they navigate the challenges of their early careers. Experienced mentors can offer insights into best practices, career development strategies, and professional ethics. These programs also create opportunities for networking and building relationships within the engineering community. By investing in the development of young engineers, the profession ensures a strong pipeline of future leaders and innovators.
The APWEN Lagos Summit served as a platform for promoting the exchange of knowledge, fostering collaboration, and inspiring the next generation of engineers. The focus on green practices, sustainable development, and intergenerational collaboration reflects the evolving landscape of the engineering profession. By embracing these principles, engineers can contribute to building a more resilient, sustainable, and equitable future for all. The summit’s emphasis on mentorship and knowledge sharing underscores the importance of investing in the development of future engineering leaders. By fostering a strong sense of community and collaboration, the engineering profession can continue to innovate and address the complex challenges facing society. The summit provided a valuable opportunity for engineers to connect, learn, and inspire one another, contributing to the advancement of the engineering profession and the betterment of society.
