The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has advocated the implementation of Grade Level 09 as an entry point for engineers in government services in states that have not effected the policy.

The first female president of the NSE, Margaret Oguntala, made the call during her investiture as the 34th president of the engineering professional body in Abuja.

She also called for a policy formulation that would compel employers of labour to pay commensurate welfare packages and hazard allowances to engineers.

Mrs Oguntala said the advocacy would be key among her focus in the next two years as the president of NSE.

According to her, setting clear focus areas is paramount to guiding the collective efforts to accomplish her vision.

Mrs Oguntala unveiled a strategic agenda which she said would underpin her mission, a roadmap that she named the “Margaret Oguntala Presidential Agenda, or MOPSA.

“MOPSA is not just a collection of words; it is a manifestation of our overarching vision, which is ‘Rebirth the NSE for the growth, empowerment and advancement of engineering in Nigeria.

“It is a meticulously crafted blueprint that encompasses five key themes, each designed to address crucial aspects of our mission.”

She said the MOPSA document consisted of one strategic agenda, five strategic themes (pillars) and 34 strategic actions.

“The first pillar is membership development; we shall focus on upskilling our esteemed members, offering mandatory professional development to keep them at the forefront of knowledge.

“NSE shall actively engage intergovernmental bodies, industries and academia to foster partnerships that drive progress, innovation and knowledge exchange.

“We shall collaborate with leading international engineering organisations and foreign missions to gain access to resources and opportunities for our members.”

The president of the NSE said advancement of innovation through the establishment of new technology-driven engineering innovation hubs would also be a key priority during her tenure, among others.

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, represented by his deputy, Sen. Barau Jubril, said Mrs Oguntala had shattered the glass ceiling.

“We celebrate the progress our society has made in promoting gender equality and inclusivity in the field of engineering.

“Engr. Oguntala’s appointment serves as a powerful testament to the fact that talent, dedication and expertise know no gender boundaries.

“It is a clear indication that the Nigerian Society of Engineers recognises and values the contributions of women in shaping the future of engineering; 33 men have come before her, serving as presidents of this great body.

“However, the time has come for the NSE to enter the labour room and give birth to a new version of itself. And it is only fitting that a mother, who knows the pains of giving birth, should be in charge of this rebirth.

“As we embark on this new chapter under the leadership of Engr. Oguntala, it is crucial that we reflect on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

“However, it is through collective efforts and a shared vision that we can overcome these challenges and pave the way for a brighter future.”

Mr Akpabio said enhancement of engineering education and training was key to the rebirth and needed immediate attention.

“We must strive to equip our engineers with the necessary skills and knowledge to compete on a global scale. This can be achieved through partnerships with educational institutions, Industrial leaders and professional organisations.

“By fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing, we can ensure that our engineers are armed with the latest tools and techniques to tackle complex engineering problems.

“As engineers, it is our responsibility to design and implement sustainable solutions that will drive economic growth, improve the quality of life for our citizens, and create an environment conducive to innovation and entrepreneurship.

“Our engineers are breaking new ground and leading the way in technological innovation.

“The NSE should reach out to Nigerian engineers in the Diaspora and urge them to respond to the call in our National Anthem.

“Let them come home and share their skills with us and contribute their unique perspectives and experiences.”

He said under the Renewed Hope Agenda, President Bola Tinubu and the tenth assembly were committed to supporting the NSE in giving Nigeria a prominent place in the engineering community.

The immediate past president of NSE, Tasiu Gidari-Wudil, said Mrs Oguntala was instrumental to most of the successes during his tenure.

Mr Gidari-Wudil pledged his unconditional support for the first female president and urged all engineers to give her maximum support.

The highlight of the occasion was the taking of the oath of office by Mrs Oguntala, which was coordinated by Mr Gidari-Wudil.

The governors of Oyo, Ogun and Ondo states, some traditional rulers and other international dignitaries, including the president of the World Federation of Engineers, attended the event.

(NAN)