Global Engineering Conference (GECO) 2024: Advancing Sustainable Development through Engineering.

Category: Updates | Published: Tue, 05-11-2024

                    
The Global Engineering Conference (GECO) 2024, held from October 15-18 in Kigali-Rwanda, brought together over 700 delegates from more than 30 countries, underscoring the critical role of engineering in promoting sustainable development. Organized by the Institution of Engineers Rwanda and the World Federation of Engineering Organisations, the conference facilitated rich discussions on vital themes, including clean water accessibility, renewable energy solutions, and climate resilience strategies. This gathering served as a pivotal platform for sharing knowledge and best practices among global engineering professionals.

Eng. Kazawadi Papias Dedeki, President of the Federation of African Engineering Organisations, delivered a keynote address emphasizing the necessity for "enhanced collaboration between engineers and policymakers." He highlighted that such partnerships are essential to effectively tackle the pressing challenges faced globally and to fulfill the UN Sustainable Development Goals. His remarks reinforced the concept that engineering is not just a technical discipline but a transformative force that can drive societal change and innovation.
 
The importance of engineering in fostering resilient communities was further echoed by Rwanda’s Minister for Infrastructure, who articulated the need for sustainable infrastructure development in achieving long-term community resilience. The conference provided a dynamic environment for high-level dialogue, where participants engaged in technical sessions and collaborative partnerships aimed at generating innovative solutions for sustainable practices in the built environment.
Panelists at the Global Engineering Conference (GECO) 2024 pose for a photo, showcasing their commitment to advancing sustainable development through engineering collaboration.

Overall, GECO 2024 succeeded in creating a robust forum for engineering professionals to discuss and strategize on critical issues impacting society today. The event not only facilitated knowledge exchange but also reinforced the collective commitment to advancing sustainable development through engineering initiatives, ensuring a resilient future for communities worldwide.