By Burnett Munthali
The Malawi Engineering Institution (MEI) has expressed grave concerns over individuals using the prestigious title of “Engineer” without proper authorization. According to MEI, only individuals who have been rigorously assessed and officially registered by the Engineering Registration Council are entitled to use this professional designation.
The institution warns that the unauthorized use of the “Engineer” title constitutes a serious offense under the law and can lead to prosecution. MEI has called upon all individuals unlawfully using the title to cease immediately or face legal consequences.
To address this growing issue, MEI has established a Disciplinary Committee tasked with investigating cases of professional misconduct. The committee is empowered to handle complaints against individuals registered under the MEI Act and take necessary action against offenders.
MEI is urging the public to play an active role in maintaining the integrity of the engineering profession. Members of the public who are aware of individuals misusing the title are encouraged to report such cases to the MEI Secretariat.
In its statement, MEI emphasized that protecting the “Engineer” title is crucial for safeguarding public interests and ensuring that only qualified and competent professionals represent the field. Allowing unregistered individuals to use the title not only undermines the credibility of the profession but also poses potential risks to public safety.
The institution reiterated its commitment to upholding high professional standards and warned that legal action will be taken against violators. MEI believes that these efforts will promote ethical practices within the engineering field and ensure that the profession remains trustworthy and reliable.
This move by MEI serves as a reminder to aspiring engineers and the public at large about the importance of adhering to legal and professional standards. As MEI continues to monitor and regulate the profession, it calls for collective vigilance to maintain the credibility and integrity of the engineering sector in Malawi.
