CAETS convocation London 2016 Engineering for a better world

Engineering for a better world- themes Capacity building of engineering institutions as a driver of development How engineering advice can better inform development spending Boosting the reputation of engineering for development research Engineering for development activities to promote engineering careers

National Activity In recent years, the Royal Academy of Engineering has pioneered several engineering for development initiatives in sub-Saharan Africa.

Engineering Capacity Needs in sub-Saharan Africa Report launched in October 2012. Identified a lack of engineering capacity in sub-Saharan Africa. Identified a skills gap as well as a skills shortage. The recommendations have become the basis of subsequent Academy work in this area. I will have copies of this report available for all attendees We strongly believe that sufficient engineering capacity is essential to the economic and social development of any country. A key driver for innovation and growth, it is also a basic requirement for sustainable provision of infrastructure that enables better healthcare, access to education, and foreign investment. The Academy worked with partners to identify engineering capacity needs in sub-Saharan Africa. A literature review was conducted, supplemented by a survey of professional engineers and decision-makers from 18 countries, as well as interviews with engineering stakeholders who have lead projects in the region. The report concluded that there is an inadequate number of engineers with sufficient skills and experience, rather than an insufficient number of engineers per se. This report and its recommendations have become the basis of subsequent activity in sub-Saharan Africa.

The Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation The Prize – in its 1st year now – is targeted to stimulate, celebrate and reward innovation and entrepreneurship in engineering in sub-Saharan Africa. This Prize will highlight the importance of engineering as an enabler of improved quality of life and economic development, and offer crucial commercialisation support to applicants through mentorship and training. In addition to this support and subsequent capacity- building the winner will receive £25,000.

Enhancing Engineering Education Programme Focused on bringing engineering curricula and teaching closer to the needs of modern industry in sub-Saharan Africa. Exchanges are funded between senior academics and industry at two ‘hub’ universities in Zimbabwe & Tanzania. Following the placements workshops are held to share learning throughout a network of ‘spoke’ universities in Botswana, Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia, Uganda & Zimbabwe. In addition to the Prize, the Academy’s Enhancing Engineering Education Programme builds upon successful schemes run by the Academy in the UK to upgrade teaching practices and bring engineering curricula closer to the needs of modern industry in sub-Saharan Africa. This is achieved primarily through funding exchanges between senior academics and industry, followed by workshops.