From Laide Raheem, Abeokuta
The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) and the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) have inducted 415 engineering graduates from Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) Ago Iwaye, as pupil engineers.
Speaking at the 10th graduate membership induction ceremony and oath taking held at the Faculty of Engineering, Ibogun Campus of university, the NSE President, Margaret Oguntala, noted that the ceremony was another day to witness the growth of the engineering profession in Nigeria.
Represented by Olumayowa Idowu, Chairman, NSE Abeokuta Branch, Oguntala commended OOU for the steps taken in fast-tracking the growth, development and advancement of the engineering profession.
She noted the theme of the event, ‘Unlocking and Maximising Your Full Potential as a Budding Engineer’ is timely and essential as it will encourage the graduate engineers to be innovative and creative,.pointing out that “It speaks directly to the aspirations of every engineer and aligns perfectly with our collective vision to make engineering a force for national and global development”.
Oguntala said that the success in the world of engineering would require more than just technical knowledge,
charging the new inductees to stand out in their field and be problem solvers.
She added that though technical expertise is essential, it is equally important to cultivate resilience, embrace continuous learning, and be adaptable in the face of challenges.
“I urge you to adhere to the highest standards of professional ethics, for it is these values that will guide you in making meaningful contributions to society.
I also urge all of you to think deeply and explore areas within engineering that have yet to be fully explored.
“Strive to make a difference to bring about breakthroughs that will benefit not only our people but humanity as a whole,” Oguntala stated.
Speaking, the COREN President, Sadiq Abubakar, noted that the induction of the pupil engineers is for career progression.
Abubakar, represented by Folasade Adetayo, COREN Council Member, urged the students to be good ambassadors of the engineering profession.
In his remarks, Prof. Ayodeji Agboola, the Vice Chancellor of the Olabisi Onabanjo University, emphasised the pivotal role engineering played in shaping the future of any nation.
Agboola explained that engineering remained the backbone of every sector, from infrastructure development to technological advancement, healthcare, and beyond.
The VC added that the country is at a critical juncture in its development, urging the inductees to be the architects of a new era in the technological development of Nigeria.
“The decision to join the Nigerian Society of Engineers and take the oath as Pupil Engineers is more than just a formal procedure.
“t is an affirmation of your commitment to uphold the highest standards of ethics, professionalism, and technical excellence in your practice.
“You are not just members of an institution; you are custodians of the future, and your responsibilities go beyond merely solving problems – you are to innovate, inspire, and transform the world around you.
“The path to becoming a licensed engineer is one of continuous learning and growth. This journey will demand resilience, creativity, and, most importantly, a strong commitment to lifelong development,” Prof Agboola submitted.
He, however, acknowledged the unwavering commitment of the NSE and COREN, saying that the bodies’ leadership and guidance has ensured that engineering in Nigeria is regulated and accountable to the highest standards.
In her welcome address, Prof. Olufunke Akinkurolere, the Dean, Faculty of Engineering, OOU, urged the inductees to be proud of their achievements .
Akinkurolere further advised them to endeavour to build, repackage and deliver themselves for enviable opportunities in the competitive world.