ALKHOBAR — The Indian Engineers Forum (IEF) recently held their annual celebration event “IEF Annual Connect – 2019” at the Holiday Inn Al-Khobar Hotel here. The event was to acknowledge the achievements of Indian engineers in Saudi Arabia and was attended by Indian engineers of all disciplines in the Eastern Province and their families.

The IEF is a professional body recognized by the Saudi Council of Engineers (SCE) and patronized by the Embassy of India in Saudi Arabia and regularly conducts training programs and networking events for Indian engineers in Saudi Arabia.

Indian Ambassador Dr. Ausaf Sayeed was the chief guest and he applauded the engineers for their efforts and contribution in the development of the Kingdom. Dr. Ausaf Sayeed recalled the early days of the forum and was appreciative of the leadership which has brought growth in its relevance over the years.

Engr. Shuja Mohammed Sheriff, president, IEF-Dammam chapter gave the welcome address, devoting a large part of his speech to the role engineers play in the development of technology. “In an advanced technological world, we need engineers to bring ideas into reality. By applying the principles of mathematics and science, engineers develop solutions to the world’s biggest technical issues,” he added.

Engr. Amir Khan, chairman of IEF Saudi Arabia, was the keynote speaker. He took the audience on a journey of 20 years, describing the role of team members and their passion towards the development of the Indian Engineers Forum.

Engr. Amitabh Saxena, CEO of Anexas Consulting Group of Companies, released his book “The Anexas Story”. Saxena praised and thanked the Indian Engineers Forum for the platform and that he hoped people will connect with his journey of becoming an entrepreneur.

The IEF also launched its annual magazine, “IEF Spectrum” at the event, and Editor-in-chief, Engr. Arsalan Ahmad requested the ambassador to cut the ribbon to mark the release of the 2019 version of the magazine.

Like every year, the IEF also awarded the Star Engineer of the Year. This award is given to those who have shown significant contribution to the industry in Saudi Arabia in the previous year and furthers the prestige of Indian engineers in the country. This year’s winner was Engr. Shariq Shamsi, general manager, Zamil Steel Construction Co. Ltd, for his exemplary work and leadership on key projects completed.

There was leadership change in the IEF Dammam Chapter. Engr. M. Z. Nadeem took over as president and introduced his new executive committee. Nadeem thanked the IEF leadership for this new assignment and said that he along with his new team will strive to take the platform to next level.

Jubail Chapter President Engr. Tasneem Akhtar honored the presidents of other chapters for their ongoing efforts and reiterated the commitment of Indian engineers to the cause of advancing engineering leadership in their roles in the Kingdom.

The event was anchored by Engr. Ghufran Mohammed and Engr. Faraz Zaidi and the evening concluded with vote of thanks by Engr. Ziad Anis. — SG