COREN's Residency Programme Gets NSE Backing.

The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has thrown its weight behind the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria's (COREN) initiative to reintroduce a one-year engineering residency programme for graduates. This programme, which aligns with international standards, aims to equip Nigerian-trained engineers with the practical competence necessary to meet global expectations.

According to Engr Olumayowa Ayodeji Idowu, Chairman of NSE, the residency programme will enhance the hands-on experience of engineering graduates before their mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) year. This will ensure that they are well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria's infrastructure and development.

The programme's introduction of a stipend for participants and collaboration with government stakeholders to ensure sustainable funding is commendable. This initiative will help reduce the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ultimately improving the quality of engineering practice in Nigeria.

The development is particularly significant in light of Nigeria's transition from a provisional signatory to full signatory of the Washington Accord. The residency programme will enhance the mobility of Nigerian engineers globally, enabling them to practice across borders and contributing to the recognition of Nigerian qualifications internationally.

NSE is encouraged by COREN's ongoing efforts to strengthen the professional standing of engineers in Nigeria. These include the review of the Engineering Compensation and Professional Scale Structure (ECOPASS) and the implementation of mandatory professional development courses for practicing engineers.

As the engineering community approaches the 33rd Engineering Assembly, NSE is confident that discussions and initiatives will pave the way for a brighter future for Nigeria's engineering profession. Key areas of focus will include fiscal governance, remuneration, and professional growth.

NSE remains committed to supporting these critical reforms and working hand-in-hand with COREN to ensure a progressive and globally competitive engineering workforce.