The outgoing president of the Engineering Professions Association of Namibia, Gert Cloete, has said that despite the challenges facing the profession, the future of engineering in the country remains promising.
He highlighted that the growing investment in oil and gas, green hydrogen, road infrastructure, and other major development projects presents opportunities for the next generation of engineers.
Dr. Cloete stated that one of his priorities over the past three years was rebuilding the association after the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw membership decline and training activities come to a standstill.
Under his leadership, the association revived training workshops, technical tours, and member engagement initiatives, resulting in a 30% increase in membership and improved financial stability.
Dr. Cloete pointed out that the transition of engineering graduates into the job market remains a concern, with many struggling to secure employment due to companies prioritising experienced professionals.
He argued that limited funding in some engineering projects and procurement practices that favour the lowest bidder contribute to reduced opportunities for graduate engineers to gain experience.
Despite these challenges, Dr. Cloete remains optimistic, saying Namibia's expanding industrial landscape offers strong prospects for young engineers entering the profession.
"That is driving prices down, and people do not have enough money readily available to employ young or aspiring engineers so they can gain experience. That is one of the main complaints I receive. Companies only want to hire experienced people. If there were more money circulating in the industry and engineering firms were paid properly, as I would suggest, then there would be more funds available to employ two or three young engineers and expose them to projects so that they can gain valuable experience."
The Engineering Professions Association also elected Sophie Tekie as its new president for the next year.
Tekie stated that her leadership will focus on promoting engineering as a driver of national development while creating more opportunities for young engineers.
She added that collaboration with industry bodies and strengthening engineering standards will be key priorities.
"The other issue is the safety of our infrastructure. For example, if a bridge or any other structure collapses, how do we ensure that the required standards and engineering requirements have been met? That is why we need to collaborate with the Engineering Council of Namibia, and that is part of our vision."
The Engineering Professions Association of Namibia, established 46 years ago, held its Annual General Meeting under the theme "Engineering Leadership for a Prosperous Namibia".