Are we adequately preparing new engineers for the future? The case for a more formal look at the management of technology and innovation

It is argued that universities in South Africa should, in addition to compensating for the global trend of accelerated change, analyze the demands that will be placed on engineers in the South Africa of the future and adjust their curricula accordingly. It is suggested that the management of technology and technological innovation in particular should be stressed. It is concluded that, in order to produce engineers who can contribute towards building and sustaining a competitive technology base, it is necessary to produce engineers who have a sense of social and environmental responsibility and a wealth-creating mindset.