Association Reaffirms Commitment to Driving SDGs in Nigeria

The Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN), Rivers State Chapter, has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing Nigeria’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Speaking at an event in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, held in commemoration of World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development, Dr Adebisi Osim, APWEN President, described the theme, “Unleashing the Power of Engineers to Advocate the Sustainable Development Goals,” as a call to action.

“This theme reminds the world of the indispensable role of engineers in shaping a sustainable, inclusive, and technologically advanced society,” Osim stated.

She emphasised the crucial role of women engineers in driving transformation and implementing diverse solutions for the SDGs.

“Women bring unique perspectives, creativity, and problem-solving skills essential for designing sustainable systems. This is why ‘STEM for All’ is not just a slogan but a movement aimed at empowering young girls and boys, mentoring future engineers, and breaking barriers to inclusivity in our profession.”

Osim underscored the role of engineering in addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges, including poverty, climate change, clean water access, affordable energy, and resilient infrastructure.

“Engineering is the foundation of human progress, and as we work towards achieving the UN SDGs, we must acknowledge the immense responsibility we bear,” she said.

She highlighted key challenges engineers face, such as energy security, climate adaptation, infrastructural deficits, and digital transformation, noting that these also present opportunities for innovation.

“We must rethink our approach, leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, green energy solutions, and sustainable construction practices to drive meaningful change.”

Osim called for stronger collaborations between public and private sectors, academia, policymakers, and industry leaders to create an enabling environment for engineering-driven solutions. She also urged the government to invest in research and innovation while encouraging industries to adopt sustainable practices.

“Engineers must advocate for ethical practices that prioritise environmental sustainability, social impact, and economic growth,” she added.

Osim stressed the importance of promoting STEM education and inspiring the next generation, especially young women, to pursue careers in engineering.

“As we mark this World Engineering Day, let us commit to fostering STEM education, inspiring future engineers, and driving innovation in sustainable solutions to address local and global challenges.”

Delivering the keynote address, Dr Promise Elechi, a lecturer at Rivers State University (RUST), spoke on the theme “Engineering Tomorrow: Harnessing Innovation for Sustainable Development Goals.”

He reinforced the pivotal role of engineers in achieving the 17 SDGs, particularly in Nigeria.

“Engineers are innovators; we are key players in national development. The advancement of the economy revolves around the engineering profession, regardless of field,” he stated.

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Elechi identified lack of funding, inadequate government support, and an unfavourable environment as key challenges hindering engineers. He called on the government to collaborate with engineers and respond to their needs.

Scholarship Awards for Outstanding Students

The event also featured a scholarship competition, with 14 out of 20 invited schools in attendance.

Four students were awarded scholarships:

Deborah Peter (1st place) – Government Craft Secondary School

Lawson Jane (2nd place) – Government Comprehensive Secondary School, Borokiri

Malachi Emeka (3rd place) – Government Secondary School, Rumuprikom

Sampson Emmanuelle (4th place) – Stella Maris Secondary School, Port Harcourt

The awards aimed to encourage young talent in STEM fields and support Nigeria’s next generation of engineer.