.. Says Oguntala is transforming the NSE for the future
A former Chairman of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) Ikeja Branch, Engr. Akin Akintola, has stated that global trends will shape the future of governance. He, therefore, urged engineers to collaborate to position the NSE and its members for greater opportunities, writes, isqil Najim.
Akintola, who is the MD of Dynamic Initiative Limited, was speaking on the topic ‘Re-imagining Governance for the Future: The Role of International Relations and Community Impact’ at a recent webinar organized by the NSE Ota Branch.
Speaking at the event, he pointed out that The future of governance is undergoing a transformation, driven by a complex interplay of global trends and technological advancements.
“As we navigate the 21st century, traditional models of governance are increasingly challenged by the demands of a rapidly changing world.” he said.
He listed factors that will drive future changes to include, Individual Empowerment, Increasing Awareness of Human Security, Institutional Complexity, International Power Shift and Liberal World Political Paradigm.
Explaining, he said that as individuals become increasingly informed and connected, they demand greater participation in decision-making processes. This will lead to a growing emphasis on good governance that addresses issues affecting them.
Akintola further explained that the in this concept of the new governance, there will be increasing “shift from the local to the international—from bureaucracy to markets and network”. He stressed that there will be collaborative initiative between an Organisation and Members. Adding that the “goal is to provoke a shift in how we talk about and do governance in organizations like ours (NSE), so they’re better positioned for our futures.”
“It’s getting us started on a new way of looking at governance, so we can have different kinds of conversations moving forward.”
“I expect it will continue to evolve rapidly, particularly as nations, international bodies, civil society actors and publics seek to respond to collective problems in new, responsible ways capable of meeting the critical moment we are in, and our voices gain prominence and power.”
Run with the vision of the new rebirth of Governance and NSE will meet up with the vision of making us if not the best but one of the best in the world.
On the future of engineering governance in Nigeria. Akintola praised the leadership of Engr Margaret Oguntala. According to him, the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) is at the forefront of driving innovation and progress in the engineering profession.
“The 34th President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) is embarking on a transformative journey to rebirth the NSE for the growth, empowerment, and advancement of engineering in Nigeria. This strategic agenda is named MOPSA (Margaret Oguntala Presidential Strategic Agenda).” he said.
Akintola, who is a Member, NSE Board of Fellows, said that MOPSA outlines a comprehensive vision for the future of the NSE, built on five pillars. From Membership Development which places emphasis on up-skilling members through mandatory professional development to stay ahead of industry trends; to Industry Partnerships, which involves fostering collaborations with intergovernmental bodies, industries, and academia to drive innovation and knowledge exchange; and International Relations, which aims at strengthening global ties and accessing opportunities for NSE members through partnerships with international engineering organizations.
Beyond technical goals, the new visions also include Community Impacts, where NSE through its Branches and Divisions will leverage engineering expertise to address community challenges and advocating for V-STEAM education to empower future generations. and the rebranding the NSE.
He said the MOPSA is “premised on the Society’s obligation to equip members with requisite knowledge and skills to meet the evolving needs of the 21st century engineering landscape across the various disciplines, focusing on Training Opportunities, Entrepreneurship and Secretariat Support as enablers for Development.”
MOPSA has evolved into a complete Agenda of NSE today. he urged members to key into the agenda to make it a success for the future of engineering.
“Run with the vision of the new rebirth of Governance and NSE will meet up with the vision of making us if not the best but one of the best in the world.” he concluded.
Earlier in her address, the chairman of the Branch Engr. Dr. Edith Alagbe while welcoming members said that “engineers have an increasingly vital role in shaping the future of governance and international cooperation in our rapidly evolving world.”
“Your work impacts the very fabric of society, and understanding how international relations intersect with community needs is essential for addressing the challenges of tomorrow.” She said.