The International Day of Happiness – and why it matters

Today, March 20th, we join the global community in celebrating the International Day of Happiness, a day dedicated to recognizing the importance of happiness in our lives. Established by the United Nations General Assembly on July 12, 2012, and celebrated annually since, this day serves as a reminder that happiness is a fundamental human goal and right.

In these challenging times, finding joy and fulfillment can seem like a daunting task, yet it's more important than ever to reflect on what truly brings us happiness. Caroline Edelstam, Secretary General of Engineers Without Borders Sweden (EWB-SWE), shares a powerful message:

"I feel happy when I can contribute to making the world a little bit better. There are so many problems in the world, and so much going on in our lives. I think it is good to think about more often, about what makes you happy, because this is where your energy and motivation lie."

As we observe the International Day of Happiness, let's take a moment to consider what makes us happy and how we can spread joy to others. Whether it's through lending a helping hand, sharing a smile, or contributing to initiatives that aim to improve our world, every act of kindness counts.
 
What makes you happy? Today, let's pledge to not only pursue our happiness but also to develop an environment – and a world – where everyone can find their joy. Share your thoughts and join the conversation using #InternationalDayOfHappiness.

New partnership for media monitoring

A new cooperation has been initiated between the Swedish media company NewsMachine and EWB-SWE for press room services and national and international media monitoring.

One of the many useful features, is the possibility to create an international newsfeed on the EWB-SWE web page covering the EWB world globally. There is also the possibility to reach national and international media through the press room services.

– We see this as an excellent way to monitor interesting things that are happening in EWB sphere internationally, but also to reach out with important news from our own organisation. We are looking forward to exploring the possibilities and developing the cooperation further, says Caroline Edelstam, EWB-SWE Secretary-General.

“There is room for more engineers in the world”

Image Screen shot from Ingenjören, March 5, 2024. Sveriges Ingenjörer

Christian Naccache, a longstanding member of Engineers Without Borders Sweden, has found his calling in the complex yet rewarding field of aid work. He currently serves as an officer at the Swedish Embassy in Maputo, Mozambique. As he reflects on the three years since completing his trainee program, the story of his career path is a testament to the impact that engineers can have on global challenges.

In a 2021 interview with Ingenjören, Engineers of Sweden’s member magazine, Naccache shared his journey from finishing his trainee program, securing a position at Sida, and awaiting an embassy assignment overseas. His first posting came in September of that year, delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic, at the embassy in Rwanda.

Currently, Naccache serves as an officer at the embassy in Maputo, Mozambique. He manages the climate and environment portfolio and has recently taken on the energy portfolio as well. His role is crucial in selecting and overseeing projects that address Mozambique’s significant challenges, such as vulnerability to climate change and threats to biodiversity due to resource extraction.

Naccache’s work spans a variety of projects aimed at improving energy supply, conserving biodiversity, and promoting sustainable construction practices. This includes initiatives to enhance resilience in rural environments and protect national parks from poaching. His engineering background has been invaluable in this context, enabling him to analyze problems and make quick, on-the-spot calculations during field visits. This technical acumen is essential for grasping the nuances of issues like emission trading and contributing to the formulation of new legislation in Mozambique.

Reflecting on the complexity of aid work, Naccache has grown to appreciate the intricate balancing act of coordinating projects, navigating bureaucracy, and working with diverse partners and stakeholders. He enjoys the multifaceted nature of his job, from engaging in technical analysis to participating in high-level discussions and seeing firsthand the impact of the projects he supports.

Formally employed by Sida and stationed at the embassy on loan, Naccache’s journey underscores the unique opportunities available to engineers in the aid sector. This spring, he will welcome an engineering intern, highlighting the rare yet valuable presence of engineers in embassy internships. Naccache advocates for more engineers to explore the possibilities within aid work, emphasizing the significant role they can play in making a tangible difference in the world.

As Sida reopens applications for its trainee program, the call for more engineers like Naccache is clear. The program offers a pathway to meaningful work in aid, providing training, experience, and the chance to contribute to global efforts in climate, environment, and beyond. With applications open until March 25, the opportunity to join this impactful field awaits those ready to make a difference.

“There is room for more engineers in the world”, and the journey of Christian Naccache is a shining example of the impact they can have.

Ethical Issues are Increasingly Important for Engineers

A recent report from Sveriges Ingenjörer has shed light on the shifting priorities among engineers when it comes to choosing their employers.

The comprehensive survey, which included responses from 1,009 engineers, reveals a significant trend: engineers are increasingly prioritizing ethical practices, ecological responsibility, and equality in the workplace.

The findings indicate that a substantial 83% of engineers consider it important for their employers to actively engage in ethical matters—an increase of 12 percentage points from 2014. Furthermore, 84% of engineers underscore the importance of environmental stewardship on the part of their employer.

The report highlights a noteworthy point: these issues are particularly important to female engineers. While there is a growing concern among male engineers, the commitment to these matters remains much stronger among women.

Contrary to some beliefs that younger generations are more inclined towards ethical, sustainable, and equal workplaces, the report found no significant difference in opinions between younger and older engineers.

A follow-up survey, which included interviews alongside questionnaires, explored the consequences of employers' ethical failings. A striking 88% of engineers stated their work motivation would decline if their employer was involved in corruption. Meanwhile, 67% would not consider employment with a company engaged in environmentally harmful activities.

The implications are clear: to attract and retain engineering talent, employers must take an active stance on ethics and sustainability. Not only do these principles affect a company's reputation, but they are also crucial for successful recruitment and maintaining staff motivation, which ultimately impacts productivity and profitability.

As an organization committed to engineers and their professional values, EWB-SWE stands firmly behind the push for workplaces that respect these core principles, championing a future where ethical practice and sustainable development are at the heart of the engineering profession.

***

Read the article in Swedish on Sveriges Ingenjörer’s web “Etiska frågor allt viktigare för ingenjörerna” where you can download the full report as well.

Engineers Without Borders Sweden Partners with IT for Children to Empower Digital Education in Ghana

In an exciting development for global digital education, Engineers Without Borders Sweden (EWB-SWE) has announced a forthcoming collaboration with IT for Children, a non-profit organization based in Sweden with extensive operations in Ghana, West Africa. This partnership aims to leverage the expertise of Swedish engineers to foster digital literacy and skills among young students and teachers in Ghana.

A Synergy of Expertise and Compassion

EWB-SWE is renowned for its commitment to harnessing engineering skills for the greater good, particularly in areas that benefit underprivileged communities around the world. The organization's digitalization group stands at the forefront of this initiative, offering a wealth of knowledge and experience in cutting-edge technologies. IT for Children, on the other hand, has been instrumental in providing high-quality, free IT education to thousands of Ghanaian children and youth daily. Their mission is rooted in the belief that information and communications technology (ICT) is pivotal for the robust and sustainable development of a nation.

Volunteering Opportunities for Graduate Engineers

The collaboration presents a unique opportunity for graduate engineers eager to make a difference. Volunteers will mentor and teach IT for Children’s teachers in Ghana, covering vital areas such as web development, robotics, and 2D/3D animations. These sessions will be conducted remotely, allowing volunteers to contribute from anywhere, breaking geographical barriers and opening up a realm of possibilities for digital education.

A Shared Vision for the Future

“We at IT for Children are very excited to enter this partnership with Engineers without Borders. We are in constant need of engineering expertise in our operations in Ghana. I know that there are so many engaged and skilled engineers out there who have so much to offer. We are very grateful if some of these engineers will offer their time and knowledge to our students and teachers in Ghana,” expressed Torsten Kjellgren, Founder & CEO of IT for Children.

About IT for Children

IT for Children operates with a vision that echoes the transformative power of ICT in education. Situated in Ghana, they strive to equip the next generation with the tools and knowledge necessary to contribute to their country's development. Their work underscores the importance of accessible, quality education as a cornerstone for progress.

Join the Movement

– This partnership between EWB-SWE and IT for Children marks a significant step towards bridging the digital divide and empowering young minds in Ghana with the skills needed for the future. We would like to encourage engineers who wish to volunteer and be part of this cause to get in touch. Your expertise can make a real difference, said Caroline Edelstam, Secretary-General of EWB-SWE.

Both organisations look forward to this collaboration, and believe that the combined efforts of Engineers Without Borders Sweden and IT for Children will pave the way for a brighter, more connected world.