A future path for engineering education: educating engineers for Europe

The present period is one of rapid change in the political, economic and technological spheres. Europe is becoming disadvantaged in today´s competitive world. Engineering education has a vital role in the task of keeping Europe in the premier league. The main factors of change and the influences these have on engineering education have been considered by academics and industrialists at several recent international seminars. In this article, the qualities required in engineering graduates are identified and ideas given for reform of curriculum content and teaching/learning strategies. The need for a close partnership between universities and industry is emphasised