During a recent webinar hosted by the Lagos chapter of the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN), Associate Professor Olayinka Adewunmi of the University of Lagos made this clear.

Adewunmi, who also leads the Innovation and Technology Management Office at UNILAG, said engineering education must evolve. Students, especially women, should be trained to solve real problems using fresh thinking. For her, innovation isn’t just about changing machines. It’s about finding new ways to tackle complex challenges in society.

She urged stakeholders to support programs that highlight the creative talents of young female engineers. These innovation challenges help students explore entrepreneurship, build networks, and gain mentorship. They also boost their confidence. Adewunmi stressed that such programs should inspire new ideas, challenge outdated practices, and align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Today’s engineering problems are more complex than ever. And the skills needed to solve them are just as demanding. Adewunmi said engineers must now be strong communicators, good team players, and have a passion for sustainability. They should also know how to use modern design tools and apply classroom lessons to real-world issues. From building homes to water systems, young engineers need hands-on experience that makes a real difference.

Dr. Atinuke Owolabi, APWEN Lagos Chair, backed this message with enthusiasm. She said her chapter is on a mission to grow female participation in engineering. Their SHEnovation program is built to inspire creative thinking, encourage bold solutions, and prepare women to lead. Owolabi challenged young female engineers to think beyond the ordinary. She urged them to embrace technology and use it to change industries and communities for the better.

She added that innovation is not just a buzzword—it is the heartbeat of progress. Female engineers must become problem-solvers who don’t just fix issues but completely rethink how things are done.

As technology changes rapidly and global challenges grow, creative education is no longer optional—it’s critical. The message is simple but strong: the future needs more women who think big, act boldly, and design fearlessly.

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At the World Engineering Day event in Rivers State, themed “Unleashing the Power of Engineers to Advocate the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” APWEN President Dr. Adebisi Osim emphasized that the event was more than a celebration. She described it as a call to action. Engineers, she noted, play a vital role in shaping a sustainable, inclusive, and technology-driven world.

Osim, a civil engineer, highlighted the importance of engineering in human progress. She stressed that engineers must address pressing global challenges such as:

✅ Poverty eradication
✅ Climate change solutions
✅ Clean water access
✅ Renewable energy development
✅ Infrastructure growth

As urbanization increases, engineers must focus on smart cities, agricultural innovation, and healthcare advancements. Their expertise can drive real change and create sustainable solutions.

Addressing Nigeria’s Infrastructure and Energy Challenges

Nigeria faces energy security risks, climate adaptation struggles, and infrastructure deficits. However, these challenges present opportunities for engineering innovation.

Osim emphasized the need for sustainable and technology-driven solutions. She called for industry leaders to reshape sectors, improve living standards, and support national development.

The Role of Women in Engineering

Diversity in engineering leads to more creative and effective problem-solving. Women bring unique perspectives, critical thinking, and innovative ideas. Their inclusion strengthens the profession.

APWEN is committed to expanding STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. The initiative aims to:

🔹 Empower young girls and boys
🔹 Mentor future engineers
🔹 Break barriers to inclusivity

Collaboration, Ethics, and the Future of Engineering

A sustainable future requires collaboration. Public and private sectors, academia, and policymakers must work together. Osim urged the government to fund research and innovation. She also called on industries to adopt sustainable practices.

Engineering must also focus on ethical practices. Osim stressed the need for:

✔ Environmental responsibility
✔ Social impact awareness
✔ Economic growth strategies

Engineers should advocate for policies that enhance transparency and accountability in the sector.

Securing Nigeria’s Engineering Future

Encouraging young women in STEM is key. Osim urged female engineers to promote education, mentor young professionals, and inspire innovation.

The future of engineering in Nigeria depends on innovation, ethical leadership, and inclusivity. By taking action today, engineers can build a more sustainable and technology-driven nation.

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The initiative seeks to foster economic growth by providing guidance, support, and resources to these women, equipping them for success in their professional journeys.

Dr. Adebisi Osim, President of APWEN, led the launch during the inaugural public lecture in Lagos, organized by the APWEN Lagos Chapter, in honor of Mrs. Idiat Amusu, the association’s fourth president. Amusu is celebrated as Nigeria’s first female agricultural engineering graduate to actively practice the profession.

Speaking on the theme Empowering Generations through Lifelong Learning, Innovation, and Collaboration, Dr. Osim emphasized the importance of mentorship in ensuring young women in engineering receive the tools they need to excel. She stressed that the program is a significant step toward creating a more diverse and inclusive engineering profession.

“Through mentorship, we can empower the next generation of women engineers and ensure that they thrive in their careers,” Dr. Osim said. “This scheme is a testament to Amusu’s legacy in the engineering profession, and I urge everyone to take full advantage of it.”

The new APWEN mentorship scheme is designed to nurture future leaders by providing them with the knowledge, skills, and essential support to succeed in engineering and make valuable contributions to the sector.

Dr. Osim concluded, “By investing in mentorship and collaboration, we can help ensure that engineering continues to shape a brighter, sustainable future for all.”

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