SINGAPORE - The Institution of Engineers, Singapore (IES) launched on Wednesday a new nationwide campaign to celebrate the country's 50th birthday this year and the institution's 50th anniversary next year.
Called IES-SG50, the campaign will celebrate engineers' contributions towards Singapore's development and will include seminars, a commemorative book and a competition to identify 50 local engineering feats.
"It is IES' aim to bring awareness to the public that from the time we wake up to the time we go to bed, nearly every little task and activity that we are engaged in involves the work of engineers," said IES president Chong Kee Sen in a speech.
A new scholarship fund was also launched to support needy students pursue their studies in engineering. The fund will be raised through the sale of commemorative medallions and the amount will be confirmed at a later date.
At the launch event at the NTUC Centre, IES honorary fellow and government adviser Lui Pao Chuen gave the first of 50 public lectures about engineering.
He encouraged employers to do more to attract engineering graduates, as half of them currently start their working lives in the service industry instead.
Engineers are in high demand as Singapore continues to develop its new towns, underground areas and defence capabilities.
"We need to create knowledge and accumulate it over time. IES plays a vital role in the future of our nation," said Professor Lui.
