About 99% of what one sees was designed, optimised, and inspired by engineers.  Most of what we take for granted today would not be possible without engineers.  We can attribute sound engineering structures of all kinds from chairs to large commercial buildings to these professionals who contribute so tirelessly to society.

The Engineering Council of South Africa is a body which looks after the interests of engineering professionals.  Most professionals associate ECSA with regulations compliance however, this is just one of the functions the body offers to its members.   “While ECSA’s core function is to register engineering practitioners as professionals, ECSA also administers the code of conduct for registered persons as well as accredits engineering programmes at Universities and Universities of Technology,” said Cyril Gamede President of ECSA.

“Engineering professionals are concerned with remaining up to date with new industry learnings as well as upholding the engineering profession to a certain standard of excellence.  ECSA sees to it that these concerns are addressed through proactive engagement with universities and other training institutions to ensure that engineering training programmes are up to date and meet ECSA standards.  In addition to this function, ECSA also publishes advisory case studies to educate members on best practice” said Gamede.

“Another one of ECSA’s roles is to closely work with government by strengthening relationships through providing a sound advisory role on engineering related matters such as infrastructure development and improvement,” explained Gamede.

As a means of stimulating their young brains, ECSA also conducts roadshows to high school students in grades six and seven during the year, the purpose of which is to educate the learner on the benefits of a career in engineering.  “We need more engineers in the South African engineering pool,” stresses Gamede.

“Engenius is ECSA’s primary tool and programme to promote the engineering profession to learners The programme is targeted at primary and secondary school learners and aims to consolidate efforts to develop engineers by centralising national programmes, materials, products, initiatives and a calendar of events aimed at those with an interest in the field.  The ultimate aim of which being to educate learners about the engineering profession,” said Gamede.

ECSA is currently conducting a series of roadshows titled the Repositioning Roadshows which is targeted at engineering professionals around the country to motivate them to register with them and enjoy the benefits of a membership with the body. ECSA has held the road shows in Free State, Western Cape and Mpumalanga.  “Our next road show takes place in the Limpopo and Eastern Cape provinces in the first quarter of 2014. We look forward to meeting our colleagues in Limpopo and Eastern Cape and engaging them about the benefits of registering with ECSA as well as critical issues affecting the Engineering profession” concluded Gamede.