What inspired you to develop the Humanitarian Engineering programmes?

Engineering disciplines have a pivotal role to play in the solution of global humanitarian challenges, enabling our societies to progress towards sustainable development. Because the issues of humanitarianism are not just engineering problems, there is need to engage with other professions and stakeholders, and to introduce interdisciplinary education and training to embrace and exploit combinational expertise.

Moreover, I always felt that there is need to improve the perception of science and engineering in the developing world, beyond ‘charity and volunteering’. What mainly inspired me to this project is the opportunity to introduce a mainstream, long-term and highly skilled profession, that can ensure there are advancements of education and practice in tackling humanitarian challenges.