African Engineering Capacity-Building Initiative Endorsed under UN's International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development
Beijing, December 10 -- Recently, the African Engineering Capacity-Building Initiative, jointly launched by the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST) and the World Federation of Engineering Organizations (WFEO), has been officially endorsed as part of the United Nations' International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development (2024-2033) framework.
This landmark recognition highlights the initiative's critical role in advancing global engineering capabilities and supporting the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through systematic capacity building in Africa.
The initiative represents a core action in promoting engineering capacity globally, strategically positioned within the context of worldwide intelligent and green transformation trends.
It focuses on harnessing the pivotal role of engineering and technology in sustainable development, with particular emphasis on deploying emerging engineering methodologies including artificial intelligence and digital technologies across key sectors such as energy, agriculture, water resources, and infrastructure.
The program establishes a comprehensive "digitalization plus engineering" framework designed to enhance engineering education capacity in Africa, deliver Continuing Professional Development training, and promote the concept and practice of engineering for sustainable development.
With an ambitious target of training 100,000 African engineers over the next decade, the initiative aims to make engineering technology a crucial supporting force for achieving the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
The UN International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development, proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in August 2023 and led by the UNESCO, seeks to accelerate global sustainable development progress through deepening scientific knowledge systems and fostering innovation collaboration.
The successful endorsement of the African Engineering Capacity-Building Initiative not only demonstrates the international community's high recognition of engineering's fundamental role in sustainable development but also provides a new platform and opportunity for strengthening global engineering governance and promoting international cooperation in engineering technology.
The initiative was officially launched in Nairobi, Kenya, on March 17, 2025, with nearly 200 representatives from the global engineering community, including government officials, academics, industry leaders, and researchers, attending the ceremony.
The event also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Intent between the CAST and the WFEO, formalizing their cooperation on this transformative program.
Tag: Department of International Affairs of CAST