Integrating AI, human expertise way forward in enhancing engineering future – Dr. Mudasiru
By Matthew Denis, Abuja
A versatile engineering expert and General Secretary of the Nigerian Institution of Highway and Transportation Engineers (NIHTE), Engr. Dr. Mudasiru Bola has disclosed that the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and human expertise will drive more innovations in the engineering profession.
Dr. Mudasiru Bola made the disclosure while presenting a paper with the theme “The Future of Engineering in an AI Dispensation: Opportunities, Threats, and the Way Forward” at the 2nd African Continental Engineering, Architecture, Constructions, and Real Estate Summit held in East Legon, Ghana, on Thursday.
The expert posited that the advent of AI is transforming the engineering landscape, empowering professionals to streamline processes, enhance decision-making, and drive innovations. He said, “As the world continues to become increasingly digitalized, the integration of AI and digital tools is revolutionizing the way engineers approach their work, leading to greater efficiency, productivity, and problem-solving.”
Dr. Mudasiru explained that AI has captured the attention of world business leaders, scientists, engineers, and other professionals seeking to create value in their service delivery through machine learning and other frontier technologies.
Focusing on the opportunities presented by AI, he highlighted increased efficiency, improved accuracy, and enhanced collaboration. He also mentioned risk management and predictive analytics as key benefits.
However, Dr. Mudasiru also noted that AI poses threats, including job displacement and skills gap, dependence on data, cybersecurity risks, and ethical concerns.
To address these challenges, he emphasized the need for skilled AI professionals, human-AI collaboration, and prioritizing ethics and responsibility in AI development and deployment.
He also stressed the importance of lifelong learning, staying up-to-date with the latest developments in AI and engineering.
“The impact of AI in the market circle is undeniable, presenting both challenges and opportunities. While AI has the potential to automate tasks and displace certain roles, it also creates new job opportunities in emerging fields like AI research, software development, and data science.
“To navigate this evolving landscape, it’s crucial for individuals, companies, and policymakers to embrace lifelong learning, develop in-demand skills, and implement robust strategies to ensure a smooth transition and equitable distribution of the benefits of AI,” he added.
