The Minister for Works, Abdallah Ulega, has urged the Engineers Registration Board (ERB) to adopt innovative practices to keep pace with the rapid advancements in science and technology.
Speaking today, January 13, 2025, at the opening of ERB’s Workers Council meeting in Morogoro, Minister Ulega emphasized the critical role of technology in engineering to ensure infrastructure projects are durable and sustainable.
“Adapting to technological advancements is crucial for delivering robust and long-lasting projects. ERB must take the lead in fostering innovation within the engineering sector,” the Minister stated.
Minister Ulega also called for more opportunities to be extended to young engineers, allowing them to gain practical experience through involvement in major and strategic national projects.
“Young engineers need exposure to significant projects to develop their skills and expertise. This is vital for building the next generation of competent professionals,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of partnerships, Minister Ulega noted that efficiency and innovation could only be achieved through active collaboration between ERB, community stakeholders, the private sector, and educational institutions.
He commended ERB for initiatives such as encouraging students to pursue science subjects, establishing an engineering school, and ensuring the registration and supervision of engineers across the country.
“Implementing robust systems to coordinate, evaluate, and monitor engineering activities will significantly contribute to individual and national development,” the Minister emphasized.
Dr. Charles Msonde, Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Works, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting ERB in advancing the engineering profession.
“The Ministry will continue to empower ERB to enhance its capacity to develop engineers who can meet public expectations and contribute to national growth,” Dr. Msonde stated.
ERB Registrar Eng. Bernard Kavishe reported that the Board, which was established in 1968, oversees the professional conduct of over 41,000 engineers and technicians across the country.
“We are dedicated to ensuring engineers and technicians uphold professionalism and adopt innovative solutions to address emerging challenges,” said Eng. Kavishe.
Morogoro District Commissioner Musa Kilakala expressed gratitude to President Samia Suluhu Hassan for the ongoing construction of key projects, including the 78-kilometer Bigwa-Kisaki road and the SGR-Kihonda railway project.
He highlighted that the completion of these projects would significantly boost Morogoro’s local economy. “Projects like these not only improve infrastructure but also unlock economic opportunities for our people,” the District Commissioner concluded.
This call for innovation and collaboration comes as Tanzania continues to invest heavily in infrastructure development, emphasizing the importance of science and technology in achieving long-term progress.