Young engineers forum to plug industry gaps

Isaac Pinielo | Thursday June 29, 2017 16:06

YPF is a group of young professionals who belong to member associations of the International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC).

According to ACEB chairperson, Zibo Makosha the YPF will ensure sustainability in the industry and address the age gap between the old experienced professionals and the young and inexperienced ones.

“It will develop professional engineers who will ensure that the best engineering practices and standards are met with the aim of ensuring the safety and satisfaction of the public in utilising the works designed and built for them,” he said.

Makosha further stated that the advances in availability of technology that can be used in engineering works are quite rapid, adding that the industry needs to harness the agility of the young minds to utilise new technologies to continue to improve on the speed and quality of “our delivery”. 

“It is also a fact that unless we utilise these technologies, we will not be able to compete with international firms,” he said.

He encouraged the industry, particularly the local consulting firms, to give the initiative their full support by allowing the young professionals time to participate in the forum’s activities, including at the Group of African Member Associations (GAMA) and FIDIC initiatives. 

The minister of Employment, Labour Productivity and Skills Development, Tshenolo Mabeo said the continued development of young professionals in the engineering and other fields is key to ensuring progressive and sustainable economic development

“YPF is a platform that seeks to speak in unison and establish growth for the engineering industry,” he said.

He said the forum will give young professional engineers in the consulting industry, a voice to present their views and influence the development of the industry in the country.

In addition, Mabeo stated that the launch of YPF would not only enable young professionals engineers to practice their profession, but also to play a meaningful role in the development of the country.

He urged them to take full advantage of the forum, and use it to the best of their ability to develop themselves and the industry. He said this is also the platform for identification of gaps and improving the standards to match international best practices.

“It is through the sharing of knowledge and skills that you will all learn and improve professionally,” the minister said.