The President, Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Engr. Margaret Oguntala, FNSE, has stressed the indispensable role of professional bodies in fostering human capacity development within Nigeria’s dynamic energy sector.
Her remarks came during her participation as a distinguished panelist at the NOG Energy Week 2025, a leading energy conference in Africa, held Monday, June 30, 2025.
Speaking at the Strategic Panel Session titled “Human Capacity Development for the Future of Energy,” Engr. Oguntala joined other prominent industry figures to deliberate on effective strategies for workforce development amidst rapid advancements in energy technologies and operational requirements.
She highlighted a critical gap between academic training and industry demands, noting that many engineering graduates lack practical, hands-on experience.
The NSE President also pointed out a growing scarcity of talent in crucial areas such as data analytics, AI-driven asset management, and green energy technologies.
Engr. Oguntala point out the necessity of implementing competency-based training frameworks.
These frameworks, she explained, should integrate internships, project-based learning, and continuous professional development, not just for new entrants but also for mid-career professionals who require reskilling to maintain relevance in the industry.
She noted that professional bodies like the NSE are crucial in bridging the divide between academia, industry, and policymakers.
This is achieved, she noted, by upholding ethical standards, spearheading structured continuous professional development (CPD) programs, and facilitating mentorship and networking platforms that promote knowledge transfer and inclusivity within the engineering workforce.
The NSE President’s participation at the NOG Energy Week 2025 reflects the Society’s ongoing dedication to championing engineering excellence and fostering impactful collaborations within Nigeria’s energy and engineering landscape.
