Inauguration of UNESCO Engineering Conference by Deputy President Paul Mashatile

Deputy President Paul Mashatile to Open Prestigious Engineering Event

Deputy President Paul Mashatile is scheduled to officially inaugurate the 9th Africa Engineering Week and 7th Africa Engineering Conference on Monday, 25 September 2023. This significant event will take place at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Pretoria and aims to celebrate and enhance engineering excellence in Africa. The theme for this year’s conference is “Celebrating and Growing Engineering Excellence in the African Region.”

The conference will host delegates from around the world, including various high-ranking government officials. Among these distinguished guests will be Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Mr. Sihle Zikalala, Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, and Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Mr. Bhuti Manamela. Moreover, governors and ministers from numerous African countries will also attend the event.

At the conference, Deputy President Mashatile will give a keynote speech, emphasizing the importance of engineering in Africa’s development. He will be joined by the aforementioned ministers and government officials in his call to action. The conference aims to address pressing global and African challenges by bringing together an influential group of decision-makers and experts.

Africa Engineering Week and Conference: A Platform for Aspiring Engineers

The Africa Engineering Week and Conference will not only be a gathering of professionals, but it will also act as a breeding ground for emerging engineers from South Africa. These young talents will have the chance to learn from and engage with some of the brightest minds in the field. In doing so, they will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to the growth and development of the African engineering landscape.

During the four-day event, participants will partake in various activities designed to foster learning, networking, and collaboration. Discussions will span from technical seminars and panel debates to workshops and training sessions. The conference will also offer a platform for experts to share their research findings and breakthroughs in engineering, inspiring attendees to expand the boundaries of innovation.

One of the main objectives of the event is to promote the exchange of ideas and best practices among engineering professionals. By facilitating such interaction, the conference aims to create an environment conducive to the development of innovative solutions for the pressing challenges faced by the African continent. This exchange of ideas will, in turn, drive economic growth and improve the quality of life for millions of people throughout the region.

Engineering’s Role in Achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals

The event will also provide an opportunity for delegates to discuss the role of engineering in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These goals, which strive to promote prosperity while protecting the planet, highly depend on advances in engineering and technology. By identifying ways in which the engineering community can contribute to realizing these goals, the conference will play a vital role in shaping a sustainable future for Africa and the world at large.

Besides the formal conference proceedings, there will be ample opportunities for networking and socializing among participants. Such interactions will help build lasting relationships, encourage collaboration, and foster a sense of community within the engineering profession. Through these connections, engineers will be better equipped to tackle the complex challenges faced by the African continent and work towards a brighter future.

By hosting the 9th Africa Engineering Week and 7th Africa Engineering Conference, South Africa is positioned to play a central role in propelling engineering excellence across the region. With the support of Deputy President Mashatile and other high-ranking government officials, this event will undoubtedly serve as a catalyst for significant change and progress in the African engineering landscape.

As a platform for engineers, aspiring professionals, and policymakers, the conference will strengthen the bonds between these key stakeholders. In doing so, it will contribute to the development of innovative solutions for the myriad challenges faced by the African continent. Ultimately, the event will establish the foundation for a brighter, more prosperous future for Africa and its people.

Members of the media are invited to attend the event and are encouraged to confirm their attendance with Ms. Bukiwe Cimela (DPWI) or Tshiamo Selomo. With opportunities for professional growth, networking, and collaboration, the 9th Africa Engineering Week and 7th Africa Engineering Conference is set to be a landmark event, marking a new era of innovation and progress in the African engineering sector.