Female engineers seek innovative solutions to stem infrastructural deficit
THE Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria ( APWEN) has called for increased investment in transformative and innovative infrastructure solutions as a means to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals ( SDG six and seven) target.
The Managing Director, Association of Consulting Engineers in Nigeria ( ACEN), Mrs Olufunmilayo Kadri, who led the call at a virtual forum themed: "Empowering Women Engineers: Transforming Infrastructure to Achieve Sustainable Development Goals,” organised by APWEN, Lagos Chapter, noted that the problems with SDG six, which centred on clean water and sanitation, are inadequate access to clean water, poor sanitation facilities and inefficient water management, while goal seven is about affordable and clean energy.
She, therefore, challenged authorities and women engineers to lead the campaign aimed at improving investments in transformative and innovative solutions that would improve access to clean water, enhance sanitation, and efficient water management, increase access to reliable electricity, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and improve energy efficiency.
Kadri said: "Engineering and engineers are crucial in the efforts to achieve SDGS six and seven. Investments in engineering solutions such as solar- powered water purification, rainwater harvesting, biogas sanitation systems, solar micro- grid, energy efficiency upgrades and innovative financing models and micro- financing options are required."
Chairman, APWEN Lagos Chapter, Mrs Atinuke Owolabi, said empowering women engineers is not only about breaking barriers but also about building bridges, to connect ideas, innovations, and aspirations for a better tomorrow.
Owolabi said the forum highlights the pivotal role women play in shaping infrastructure and advancing global sustainability, adding that the discussion is timely and crucial to building inclusive and resilient infrastructure that meets community needs.
She urged Governor Babajide Sanwo- Olu to prioritise the maintenance of infrastructural development. “Let us empower our indigenous engineers, source spare parts locally, and implement regular maintenance checks to sustain our infrastructure investments, especially the rail mass transit system recently commissioned," Owolabi said.
APWEN President, Dr Adebisi Osim, said the theme was a reminder of the immense contributions that women have made, and continue to make, in the field of engineering from designing groundbreaking infrastructure to developing innovative solutions to global challenges.
She noted that women engineers have proven over time that their talents and expertise are essential to the progress and prosperity of society.
"We reflect on the pivotal role of infrastructure in achieving SDGS. Infrastructure forms the backbone of economies, societies, and environments, providing essential services and enabling growth.
However, its development and management present multifaceted challenges that demand innovative solutions and diverse perspectives," Osim said.
She said: "Through our expertise, creativity, and dedication, women engineers are not only designing and constructing resilient infrastructure but also integrating sustainable practices that mitigate environmental impact and enhance societal well- being.
“We are steadfast in empowering women engineers through mentorship, professional development, and advocacy. We believe in nurturing talent, breaking down barriers, and creating pathways for women to thrive in traditionally maledominated fields. Our initiatives aim to equip women engineers with the skills, networks, and opportunities they need to succeed and lead impactful projects that shape our communities for the better."