NIEEE, Lead City varsity partner to boost engineering skills for future professionals

The Nigerian Institute of Electrical Electronics Engineers (NIEEE), Ibadan chapter, has joined forces with Lead City University to hold a one-day program focused on skill development and career growth for students studying Electrical, Electronics, and Mechatronic Engineering.

This workshop, held at the university’s International Conference Centre on Tuesday, sought to equip students with insights essential for their professional journey.

Babatunde Ogunpaimo, the NIEEE Ibadan chairman, underscored the importance of professionalism and independence for aspiring engineers. He encouraged students to take charge of their technical capabilities instead of relying on untrained technicians. Highlighting the event’s role in inspiring a proactive mindset, Ogunpaimo said, “Change starts with ‘me.’ As a professional body, our mission is to encourage students to apply their academic knowledge practically.”

Ogunpaimo also pointed to a local tendency to outsource electronics repairs to areas like Dugbe, which he attributed to limited policy support, such as the absence of mandatory internships for engineering students. “You can’t learn everything at home,” he remarked. “Engaging with professionals allows students to develop the practical understanding that propels technological advancement.”

In addition, Ogunpaimo stressed the importance of engineers’ voices in policymaking, advocating for engineers to hold leadership roles in technical areas. “Professionals should drive the policies shaping their sectors,” he noted. “When non-engineers lead critical technical fields, our expertise is underutilized. Engineers need to step up and show leadership, especially in areas like management and economic planning.”

On foreign involvement in Nigeria’s construction sector, Ogunpaimo supported the recent legislation requiring foreign companies to employ Nigerian engineers for domestic projects. “This law is a step forward, but it’s our duty to ensure it is actively enforced to uplift our profession,” he said.

Dr. Babatunde Emmanuel, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Head of the Electrical and Electronics Engineering Department at Lead City University discussed the program’s objectives, which included mentoring opportunities for students. “Through our partnership with NIEEE, we’re committed to helping students find career paths and connect with experienced professionals,” he explained.

Emmanuel also highlighted the need for graduates who can tackle societal challenges immediately. “Our goal is to prepare students with practical skills that extend beyond the classroom, equipping them to make meaningful contributions to society,” he stated.

This collaboration between NIEEE and Lead City University is a strategic step to prepare Nigeria’s future engineers with the technical and professional skills they need to excel in a rapidly evolving industry.

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