ANSTI was established in 1980, by the UNESCO, to support collaborative research and training among African institutions in the engineering, science and technology disciplines. This non-governmental organization draws its members from almost 200 universities and science or engineering research facilities in more than 35 sub-Saharan countries. ANSTI (in partnership with the German Academic Exchange Service and L'OREAL) offers fellowships for those interested in pursuing post-graduate academic studies in the science and engineering fields. ANSTI also promotes collaborative research through its conference grants. In November, ANSTI will be hosting their 5th Conference of Vice Chancellors, Provosts and Deans of Science, Engineering and Technology (COVIDSET 2013). This event will provide a platform for participants to exchange ideas and establish good practices to promote Africa’s competitiveness in the science, engineering and technology sectors.

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With more than 130,000 members in over 150 countries, ASME is a key partner in increasing awareness in advancing the mandates of the UNESCO Engineering Initiative. This not-for-profit organization supports collaboration across all engineering fields through the creation and dissemination of its mechanical engineering standards and codes. Furthermore, in line with UEI themes, one of the core values of ASME is the promotion of engineering education and environmentally sustainable technologies. On 21 June 2012, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between ASME and UNESCO. This MOU emphasized the need to increase the public’s awareness of the significance of engineering, the continued importance of investing in engineering initiatives specific to Africa and the promotion of gender equality.

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Through the German Commission to UNESCO and in partnership with the UNESCO Engineering Initiative, VDI promotes educational and research exchanges with developing countries. This has largely been accomplished through cooperative agreements with nine German technical schools and five German companies (Bayer, Robert Bosch, E.ON, TÜV Rheinland, and Volkswagen). Also, in line with the UNESCO Engineering Initiative, VDI seeks to emphasize the importance and increase the visibility of sustainability topics in engineering studies. Through ‘hands-on’ training and various educational initiatives, such as scholarships, traineeships and internships, students will have the skills and opportunities to make global connections and therefore increase collaborative efforts in improving the socio-economic conditions of societies.

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With more than 425,000 members (116,000 student members) in 160 countries, IEEE sponsors numerous conferences, workshops and job fairs to improve the quality of engineering studies and the professional development of engineers. In 2012, IEEE signed a Memorandum of Understanding with UNESCO to support engineering education programs in Africa. IEEE views technological advancement as an important element for the socio-economic development of many African nations. Lastly, IEEE and the UNESCO Engineering Initiative are collaborating on a number projects focusing on engineering education at the tertiary level and promoting engineering to youth and women. 

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In partnership with UNESCO, NAEK, is involved in the promotion of sustainable engineering in ASEAN countries. As there has been tremendous growth in ASEAN countries, it is important to understand the roles of engineers in these accomplishments. There is also a need to appreciate how engineers are creating sustainable technologies and facilitating the use of renewable resources in future developments. NAEK focuses on improving the mobility of engineers, as a means to support socio-economic development.

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