The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, has cautioned engineers against overreliance on artificial intelligence (AI), urging them to maintain strong professional judgment in project execution.
Speaking at the Annual Engineers’ Conference, which also marked World Engineers’ Day celebrations at Hotel Africana on Wednesday, Tayebwa emphasized that while AI is a valuable technological tool, it should not replace proper planning, supervision, and accountability in engineering practice.
“AI can be a useful tool, but it should not replace thorough planning, supervision, and accountability. Engineers must remain actively engaged in the design and implementation of projects to ensure quality standards are upheld,” he said.
Tayebwa also warned against the delivery of substandard work, noting that poor-quality projects have in the past been reported, particularly in government-funded developments at the district level.
He urged engineers to resist external pressure from politicians or other actors to approve or execute substandard projects, stressing that such actions undermine public trust and damage professional credibility.
“As we continue to face the effects of climate change, our engineers have an even greater responsibility. Infrastructure development must protect, not destroy, the environment. Sustainable design and climate-resilient construction should be at the core of their work to safeguard our communities for generations to come,” he added.
The Deputy Speaker reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to supporting the growth of a vibrant, ethical, and responsible engineering profession through progressive legislation and policy frameworks. He also called on government entities to prioritize local professionals when awarding contracts.
“This will require eliminating restrictive clauses in bidding processes that unfairly lock out Ugandan engineers from competing for opportunities in their own country,” he said.
The celebrations also featured the launch of a five-year strategic plan by the engineering fraternity, alongside the introduction of the Engineers Registration Board’s digital licensing system.
