The air crackles with innovative energy on Strathmore’s campus today. Engineers of all stripes have converged to celebrate their pivotal role in shaping the future. It’s a veritable who’s-who of technology trailblazers – I see Eng. Margaret Ogai rubbing shoulders with Eng. Prof. Cleophas Maende, while Eng. Naresh Mehta and Eng. Nickson Bukachi trade insights nearby.  The event  also brings together the convergence of leading experts and visionaries in the field of engineering and education. Eng. Nickson Bukachi from EPRA, Eng. Albert Mugo, Eng. Martin Nzomo, Engineering Deans & Principals Council, and Eng. Prof. Cleophas Maende, Technical University of Kenya. 

The real stars today are the students. After all, the theme is “Engineering Education for the 5th Industrial Revolution” – and these young makers and creators are our best hope for navigating its challenges.

But first, people ask, and rightfully so, how will the 5th Industrial Revolution affect engineers?

After a short introduction session from each of the attendees, experienced engineers took the stage to share their unique journeys and the invaluable lessons they had learned along the way. Prof Izael Da Silva, DVC Research and Innovation, took his audience through the journey he has taken in his now successful venture to bring engineering education to Strathmore. “At Strathmore we are creating not just good engineers but good human beings,” he said.

One of the key highlights of the day was from Eng. Naresh Mehta  who ignited the discussion on the vast opportunities presented by the emergence of data hubs in Kenya. With seven anticipated data hubs, Kenya is at the forefront of embracing the technological revolution, presenting endless possibilities for innovation and economic growth. But also his remarkable journey of building two companies with a modest budget of 20,000 shillings to their valuation in millions in the 1980’s was a key demonstration of the ability to improvise, be resilient, and a thirst for knowledge as the foundation of success in the engineering field.

Eng. Margaret Ogai, Registrar/CEO of Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK) also shared her experiences. With a wealth of experience under her belt, she reminded us that “engineers are not just problem solvers, but problem anticipators.” Preparing the next generation of engineers to navigate the complex landscape of the Fifth Industrial Revolution requires a deep understanding of societal needs, ethical considerations, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

As we delved deeper, Eng. Prof. Silvester Abuodha (EBK),  shared his extensive knowledge of the field. With an infectious passion, he emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, highlighting the intricate relationships between engineering, design, and sustainability. As we ponder the future of technology, we are reminded that “the only constant is change.” Embracing this mentality allows us to stay ahead of the curve, fostering innovation and adaptability in the engineering field.

However, amidst the optimism and potential of the engineering landscape, the discussion also shed light on the challenges posed by policy that does not adequately support manufacturing. Well, time certainly flies when you’re having fun!  At the end, as conversations faded, the attending engineering students were left imbibed with a powerful takeaway: stay hungry, stay willing to learn.

But most of all, I’m left with a sense of community and verve for the future.

Cheers to the future, one circuit at a time! 🥂

Article written by: Keith Albert