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State Minister for Works, Musa Ecweru, has expressed dismay over the prevalent issue of unconfirmed engineers serving in various districts across the country. Ecweru highlighted that a significant number of these engineers are not registered with the Engineering Registration Board, thus lacking membership in the Uganda Institute of Professional Engineers (UIPE).
Speaking to journalists in Kampala, Minister Ecweru emphasized the importance of engineers employed by the government being registered with their professional bodies. This registration ensures accountability in case of any substandard work carried out by these engineers.
In Uganda, it is a legal requirement for engineers to register with the Engineering Registration Board before practicing engineering in the country. However, Minister Ecweru noted that many districts have hired individuals who are not affiliated with their professional body or registered with the Engineering Registration Board.
Minister Ecweru’s remarks came ahead of this year’s World Engineering Day, slated for March 4th, which will be observed globally under the theme: “Engineering Solutions for a Sustainable World.”
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The Uganda Institute of Professional Engineers (UIPE) underscores that registration signifies a commitment to professional standards and the development of professionalism among engineers. Despite this, the Uganda Engineering Registration Board reports that out of over 20,000 engineers in the country, only about 1,800 are registered and recognized by their professional body.
Isaac Mutenyo, the chairman of the Uganda Engineering Registration Board, attributes the low registration numbers partly to the optional nature of the registration process. However, he emphasizes that registration is essential as it demonstrates an engineer’s competency and adherence to professional standards.
Mutenyo outlines the registration process, which requires proof of qualifications, capacity to perform, and an annual subscription fee of 475,000 Ugandan shillings. Additionally, engineers must undergo four years of supervised practice after attaining their diplomas or degrees to qualify for registration.
In response to the challenges posed by unregistered engineers, some professionals have proposed the enactment of new legislation or the amendment of existing laws to ensure that all practicing engineers meet established standards. This step aims to enhance accountability and professionalism within the engineering sector, ultimately contributing to the delivery of high-quality infrastructure projects across the country.
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