Engr. Mudasiru Bola, the National Secretary General of the Nigerian Institution of Highway and Transportation Engineers (NIHTE), has advocated for a comprehensive curriculum reform to elevate the standards of engineering education in Africa.
He said this while Speaking on the topic Innovative Leadership in Engineering, A Tool for Reforming Engineering Education at the recent 10th UNESCO African Week and 8th African Engineering Conference in Luanda, Angola.
Dr Mudasiru said there was a need to foster a culture of innovation, entrepreneurship, and interdisciplinary collaboration, consistent with the UNESCO Engineering Education Framework and the IEA (International Engineering Alliance) Graduate Attributes.
Bola’s proposal emphasizes the integration of design thinking, problem-solving, and other contemporary approaches to better equip engineering students for the challenges of the modern world.
He explained that Technology encompasses the tools, software, hardware, and systems used to design, develop, and deliver engineering projects. This includes cutting edge innovations, technical expertise, and digital solutions.
According to him: “Technology encompasses a broad spectrum of elements, including architectural frameworks, solutions, designs, and innovation, all of which are spearheaded by our leadership team.
Beyond these core competencies, Bola also stressed the importance of cultivating soft skills such as critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and adaptability. These skills are increasingly essential for engineers to thrive in a rapidly evolving and interconnected global landscape. By incorporating these elements into the engineering curriculum, Bola believes that African engineering graduates will be better prepared to contribute to sustainable development, economic growth, and technological advancement.
Drawing inspiration from the concept of the “engineering hat trick,” Mudasiru underscored the importance of combining technology, people, and delivery for successful project outcomes. He argued that mastering these three elements is essential for aspiring engineers to achieve exceptional levels of success.
In addition to technological advancements, Bola also highlighted the importance of human capital in the engineering field. He emphasized the need to invest in the professional development of engineering faculty and researchers to ensure that they possess the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach and mentor students. By providing opportunities for faculty to engage in research, attend conferences, and collaborate with industry partners, institutions can foster a culture of innovation and excellence.
Furthermore, he advocated for greater collaboration between academia and industry to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. He suggested that engineering programs should incorporate internships, apprenticeships, and industry-sponsored projects to provide students with hands-on experience and exposure to real-world challenges. Such collaborations can also help to ensure that engineering education remains relevant to the needs of the job market.
He concluded by highlighting the crucial role of leadership in driving innovation and progress in the engineering field. He emphasized the need for visionary leaders who can inspire and motivate their teams to achieve ambitious goals. By fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and continuous learning, effective leaders can create a positive and productive environment for engineering students and professionals alike.