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151-8101-00L 4 Credits BSC , DR , MSC D-GESS , D-MAVT
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International Engineering: from Hubris to Hope

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Elizabeth Tilley, Colin Walder
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-01 11:30:57

Abstract

Since Europe surrendered their colonial assets, engineers from rich countries have returned to the African continent to address the real and perceived ills that they felt technology could solve. And yet, 70 years on, the promise of technology has largely failed to deliver widespread, substantive improvements in the quality of life. Why?

Objective

This course is meant for engineers who are interested in pursuing an ethical and relevant career internationally, and who are willing to examine the complex role that well-meaning foreigners have played and continue to play in the disappointing health outcomes that characterize much of the African continent. After completing the course, participants will be able to • critique the jargon and terms used by the international community, i.e. “development”, “aid”, “cooperation”, “assistance” “third world” “developing” “global south” “low and middle-income” and justify their own chosen terminology • recognize the role of racism and white-supremacy in the development of the Aid industry • understand the political, financial, and cultural reasons why technology and infrastructure have historically failed • Debate the merits of international engineering in popular culture and media • Propose improved SDG indicators that address current shortcomings • Compare the engineering curricula of different countries to identify relative strengths and shortcomings • Explain the inherent biases of academic publishing and its impact on engineering failure • Analyse linkages between the rise of philanthropy and strategic priority areas • Recommend equitable, just funding models to achieve more sustainable outcomes • Formulate a vision for the international engineer of the future

Content

Role of international engineering during colonialism Transition of international engineering following colonialism White saviourism and racism in international engineering International engineering in popular culture The missing role of Engineering Education Biases in academic publishing The emerging role in Global Philanthropy The paradox of International funding

Resources

Literature

McGoey, L. (2015). No such thing as a free gift: The Gates Foundation and the price of philanthropy. Verso Books. Moyo, D. (2009). Dead aid: Why aid is not working and how there is a better way for Africa. Macmillan. Munk, N. (2013). The idealist: Jeffrey Sachs and the quest to end poverty. Signal. Rodney, W. (2018). How europe underdeveloped africa. Verso Trade.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
BSC , DR , MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
end-of-semester examination
Mode
written 180 minutes
Aids
Any printed material is allowed during the exam; no digital materials.
There is a written final exam during the last week of class which covers all material taught during the course, i.e. the material presented during the lectures, readings , and discussions. Guidance to prepare for the exam will be provided throughout the course.The exam will contribute 50% to the final grade. One compulsory continuous performance assessment will contribute the remaining 50%. It consists of six (6) assignments, the best five of which will be contribute to the compulsory continuous performance assessment grade.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise International Engineering: from Hubris to Hope
  • Thu 15:15-18:00 (ML F 34)
3 h weekly

Offered In