Directors of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Departments from the federal and state ministries of works have called for the re-invigoration of industrial development centres across the country.

The directors made the call in a communiqué issued last Thursday after their 37th national conference held in Abuja.

The communiqué was signed by Mr Jerry Ovuewhore, Director, Electrical and Mechanical Service Department, Federal Ministry of Works.

In the communiqué, the conference encouraged governments at all levels to revive and modernise technical and vocational schools and colleges.

This they said would provide the much needed technical manpower and alleviate the current unemployment crisis in the country.

The directors also recommended that as part of efforts to curb security challenges, government should provide a three- digit national emergency number that should be widely publicised.

It urged the government to shift from the conventional highway street lighting fittings to energy saving and efficient lamps to address the present energy crises in the country.

The directors also want the challenge of low illumination and inferior components associated with solar lighting installations at the moment to be subjected to further research and development,

“Government should vigorously pursue the provision of street lights along major highways and bridges to ensure security of lives and properties.

“Surveillance cameras should be provided along the highways for the same purpose and should be installed in strategic dark spots,” the communiqué said.

The directors encouraged electrical and mechanical engineers to play relevant roles in the planning and execution of engineering infrastructure, especially road infrastructure, with due adherence to international best practices.

The next conference of the directors will take place in Bayelsa in 2012.