JEREMIAH Ojediran, Vice-Chancellor, Bells University, Ota, on Friday said the role of engineers was critical to meeting the demands of the increasing global population growth.

Ojediran said this on Friday, when the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) inaugurated an eight-member pioneer executive committee of the Omu-Aran chapter of the society in Landmark University, Omu-Aran, Kwara.

The newly inaugurated branch, which is the 73rd in the organisation’s network, is saddled with championing the course of the organisation for the next two years in the area.

He expressed the need for members of the profession to be more focused, prepared and well positioned through innovation, capacity development to fulfill such demands.

Ojediran, who spoke on: “Engineering Innovation and Development: A Quintessential Nexus”, said it was the responsibility of engineers to create sustainable development and impact on human lives.

According to him, two decades from now, the world’s population will increase by almost two billion with 95 per cent from developing countries.

“This growth will occasion demands for energy, food, land, water, transportation, materials, waste disposal, health care, environmental clean-up, telecommunication, and infrastructure.

“Therefore, the role of engineers will be critical in meeting those demands at remote small communities to large urban areas, mostly in the developing world,” he said.

Mr Adekunle Mokuolu, the NSE President said the inauguration of more branches within and outside the shores of the country was informed by sustainable capacity building toward service to humanity.

“What this means is that we will witness more research work, mentoring, service and collaborations with our government, academia and the organised private sector to move the nation forward,” he said.

Prof. Adeniyi Olayanju, the Vice-Chancellor, Landmark University, urged the committee members to extend their tentacles to accommodate more members within the neighbouring communities.

He said the institution’s desire to prioritise mechanised agriculture could only be made possible through effective and efficient engineering input.

Olayanju requested for the body’s examination centre within the branch to serve educational institutions, private organisations engaging young and upcoming engineers.

Mr Ayoleke Ibikunle, the branch’s chairman of NSE, promised to partner with institutions within the area to develop a system that would enhance entrepreneurship development.

Other members of the executive committee are  Olawale .O. , Vice-Chairman, Mr John Ramonu, General Secretary, Mr Raphael Davids, Technical Secretary and Mr Ezegwu Chinedu, Treasurer.

Others are Mr Atoyebi Olumeya, Publicity Secretary, Mr Ogun .O., Financial Secretary and Mr Olumuyiwa Ogunwale, Assistant Treasurer.

The inauguration attracted members and fellows of engineering profession, traditional rulers, security agencies, among others. (NAN)

– Jun 5, 2018 @ 16:09 GMT |