FQM Urges EIZ Delegates to Create World-Class Engineers for National Development
First Quantum Minerals (FQM) has called on engineers to adopt an innovative approach to solving challenges in the mining sector and to develop professionals capable of competing globally.
Speaking at the 2025 Engineering Institute of Zambia (EIZ) Annual General Meeting and Symposium in Livingstone, FQM Trident Safety Manager, Atkins Sitwala, challenged engineering professionals to move beyond conventional problem-solving and to become creators of solutions for pressing national issues, including climate change, energy security, and infrastructure development.
The symposium, themed “Sustainable Engineering Solutions for Climate Change Mitigation,” gathered prominent figures from industry, government, and the EIZ to discuss the future direction of the engineering profession.
During his address, Sitwala questioned the engineering community’s current response to challenges: “Are we merely reacting to challenges, or are we actively involved in engineering solutions for the future that demand innovation, adaptability, and foresight?”
Sitwala advocated for an “off-the-grid mindset,” urging engineers to become self-starters and innovators who create new industries and employment opportunities instead of seeking them. “The world does not need more job seekers. It requires job creators. Let us work together and become the grid ourselves,” he said.
Highlighting FQM’s commitment to talent development, Sitwala spoke of the company’s support for career events, higher education sponsorships, and trade schools, including Kwambula and the new Poly Training Trade School in Kalumbila.
He also emphasized the importance of aligning academic curricula with the current needs of the industry, especially with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), and urged the development of “world-class engineers” to help meet Zambia’s ambitious copper production targets and address infrastructure challenges.
Public Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development Minister Charles Milupi, who also spoke at the event, acknowledged the significant impact of climate change on Zambia. He cited increased flooding, prolonged dry spells, and unpredictable weather patterns as strains on the country’s infrastructure and economy.
Milupi noted that the symposium’s theme aligned with the government’s agenda, stressing the central role engineers must play in finding sustainable solutions to the challenges brought on by climate change.
“The New Dawn Government is overseeing several strategic infrastructure projects aimed at improving the quality of life for Zambians and increasing economic growth, reflecting resilience to climate change,” said Milupi.
