Redefining Engineering: Embracing Sustainability and Digital Innovation

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

Engr. Dr. Mudasiru Bola has called on engineers to embrace sustainable practices, develop new skills, and adapt to the rapidly changing technological landscape to secure the profession’s future.

Speaking at the 14th IET International Conference and Exhibitions in Tanzania, his presentation, titled “Transforming the Engineering Landscape: Embracing Sustainability, Digital Transformation, and Emerging Technologies for a Resilient Future,” underscored the critical role of engineering in addressing global challenges.

Dr. Mudasiru, National Secretary General of the Nigeria Institution of Highway and Transportation Engineers (NIHTE) and a Presidential Merit Awardee of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), stressed that the engineering profession must evolve in response to global challenges and technological advancements. He noted that the pressing need for climate action necessitates a fundamental shift in engineering practices, prioritizing sustainable design to address rapid urbanization and environmental pressures.

“The engineering landscape is undergoing a transformative revolution, driven by digital technologies and emerging innovations that redefine how we design, build, and maintain our world,” Dr. Mudasiru said. “This shift enables the development of smarter, more resilient solutions, crucial for creating a livable future.”

Mudasiru highlighted key trends and innovations driving sustainable development, including digital twin technologies, predictive maintenance, and integrated frameworks for impact assessment. He emphasized the importance of embracing sustainability and digital innovation to create a better, more connected world, aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 9, 11, and 13).

The expert also discussed the imperative of sustainable engineering and innovations, citing resources depletion, climate change, social equity, environmental stewardship, inclusivity, economic growth, and productivity. He noted that engineers must develop new skills, stay adaptable, and prioritize sustainable engineering practices to thrive in the evolving landscape.

Mudasiru emphasized that artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are revolutionizing the engineering field, offering unprecedented capabilities in design optimization, predictive maintenance, and autonomous systems. “These technologies are enabling engineers to tackle complex problems with greater efficiency and precision than ever before.”

He urged engineers to work together to leverage the power of sustainable engineering and digital transformation to create a brighter, more sustainable future for all. By doing so, we can ensure a prosperous and sustainable world for generations to come.