IN Sindh, the quality of civil engineering education has been on a steady decline, raising concerns about the competence of graduates entering the professional world. Lack of practical exposure and outdated teaching methodologies at universities are the root causes in this regard.

If immediate action is not taken, the consequences will be dire for both the engineering sector as well as the overall development of the province.

Students often graduate without a clear understanding of basic civil engineering principles. Students need to understand how to design, construct and maintain an infrastructure, but without access to proper labs or field visits, they are left with only theoretical knowledge.

This gap between education and practice leaves graduates ill-prepared for the challenges ahead. Poorly designed and executed projects can lead to safety hazards, increased costs, and delays, ultimately hindering development.

The curriculum must be updated to reflect current industry standards and technological advancements. Emphasis should be placed on practical skills, such as project management, construction techniques, and the use of modern software tools. Universities must invest in well-equipped laboratories where students can gain hands-on experience with materials, tools and equipment used in the field.

After every semester, students should be sent to construction sites, infrastructure projects, and other relevant field locations. This will expose them to real-world challenges and help them apply their theoretical knowledge in practical settings.

Professors and instructors must be trained in modern teaching methodologies as well as industry practices. Their ex-pertise will play a crucial role in shaping competent engineers. The higher education authorities should establish strict quality assurance mechanisms to monitor the performance of universities through regular audits.

The deteriorating state of civil engi-neering education in Sindh is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention. After all, the future of the province’s infrastructure and development depends on the core competence of its engineers.

Imtiaz Hussain Solangi
Larkana

Published in Dawn, May 20th, 2025