PHOTO: Madam Marylyn Sieh, Chair of the Engineering Department of the Grand Kru Technical College
By: James Myking Suah
The Chairperson of the Engineering Department at Grand Kru County Technical College has emphasized the urgent need for more engineers in diverse fields of study within the country.
Madam Marylyn Sieh was speaking recently during a press briefing at her office in commemoration of World International Engineering Day.
She expressed concern that the primary workforce of nearly all network and construction companies in Liberia consists of foreign nationals, although she did not provide specific statistics.
The head of the Grand Kru Technical College Engineering Department emphasized that a significant number of Liberian students seeking higher education are avoiding engineering courses.
This trend is creating an opportunity for the Liberian job market to be increasingly dominated by foreign professionals, the Liberian female engineer noted
Madam Sieh informed Journalists that about twenty-five students are currently enrolled in the engineering department of the Technical College, with only five females actively participating in the program.
But she expressed dissatisfaction over the number of students in her department, attributing this situation to the school’s geophysical circumstances. She also encouraged young Liberians who are high school graduates to take advantage of the college’s presence within the county for their educational advancement.
Madam Sieh added: “I am urging our brothers and sisters who work in various gold mines to pursue education. In your old age, you will be unable to mine gold to support your family,”
The World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development is celebrated annually on March 4 to highlight the crucial role of engineers in tackling global challenges like climate change, sustainable infrastructure, and economic development.
According to her, Grand Kru County Technical College Engineering Department is providing two academic disciplines: an Associate degree in Civil Engineering and Computer Science, with a focus on networking.
She said students in her department are adequately provided with essential hands-on materials; however, they face challenges related to the internet system.
The administration of the college is actively seeking a solution to enhance and strengthen students’ learning activities.
This year’s Engineering Day was conducted under the theme “Smart Engineering for a Sustainable Future,” “Transform Your Future,” or “Engineering Excellence.”