By Bill W. Cooper
The President of the Engineering Society of Nigeria (FNSE), Margaret Aina Oguntala has called on her Liberian counterparts to take the lead in championing, upgrading, and utilizing solutions to enhance energy access in rural communities.
Engineer Oguntala also emphasized the critical role that renewable energy plays in addressing the energy crisis faced by many rural communities in Liberia and beyond, stressing that the need for the utilization of renewable energy cannot be overstated.
She spoke yesterday, February 11, 2025, when she served as the guest speaker for the opening ceremony of the Engineering Society of Liberia (ESOL) 7th Annual Conference at the Ellen Ministerial Complex in Congo Town.
The four-day conference, which is expected to end this Friday, brought together several engineers, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the region to discuss pressing issues in the engineering sector, with a particular focus on Liberia’s engineering deficit.
Held under the theme: “Innovative Engineering Solution For Sustainable Solutions in Liberia”, the gathering also featured a series of discussions, panel discussions, and networking opportunities aimed at fostering collaboration among engineers and stakeholders in the region.
Oguntala’s keynote address further set the tone for the discussions as she outlined the various renewable energy technologies available, including solar, wind, and biomass, and their potential to provide clean energy solutions for rural communities.
Oguntala also highlighted the fact that statistics show that thousands of Liberians lack access to electricity, with rural areas being disproportionately affected, noting, “Access to reliable and sustainable energy is not just a luxury; it is a fundamental human right.”
In her address, Oguntala further urged the Liberia Engineering Society to take the initiative in promoting renewable energy projects that are tailored to the unique needs of rural communities, ensuring that the country benefits from access to affordable electricity.
She cited successful case studies from Nigeria, where solar energy projects have been implemented in rural areas, providing electricity to schools, health clinics, and several households.
“These projects have not only improved energy access but have also created jobs and stimulated local economies,” she added.
Oguntala, at the same time, stressed the importance of collaboration and capacity building in the engineering sector, calling on ESOL to establish partnerships with educational institutions, government agencies, and private sector players to enhance the skills and knowledge of engineers in the country.
She also highlighted the need for continuous professional development and training in renewable energy technologies, and added, “Investing in human capital is crucial for the sustainable development of our engineering sector.”
Earlier, the President of ESOL, Engineer Dadley Toe, expressed his gratitude to once again host another conference as the organization’s president, asserting, “It is truly an honor to be among you once again as we gather from another year of progress and collaboration.”
“I have had the privilege of serving ESOL with pride, and I am humbled by the little achievement we have accomplished together, and for me, this is an honor that I will forever cherish even after the tenure,” he said.
Dadley, however, asserted that throughout Liberian history, engineers have played a pivotal role in shaping the world, ranging from constructing bridges to designing intricate transportation networks, among others.
He then called on all his members to remain a steadfast supporter of the mission and values of ESOL as they deliberate and brainstorm on ways and means that will see the growth and forwardness of the organization for the next four days.
Meanwhile, as the 7th Annual Conference of ESOL unfolds, participants are expected to engage in further discussions on policy recommendations, project implementation strategies, and the role of engineering in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The conference is being sponsored by the Liberia Electricity Regulatory Commission (LERC), Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC), Road Safety Action International (RSAI) and WILKINS Engineering.