A QUARTERLY UPDATE FROM THE SOCIETY OF AFGHAN ENGINEERS
SAE eNEWSLETTER
Volume 1, Issue 4 Mizan 1390 October 2011 P.O. Box 11520, Burke, Virginia 22009-1520 http://www.afghan-engineers.org/index.html ______Dear Colleagues: newsletter Editorial Board This issue of the SAE welcomes Ambassador Hakimi N S I D E T H I S I SSUE eNewsletter (newsletter) as a team member of the Society features the latest events about of Afghan Engineers. 2 President’s Message 2011 election of the Society A Message from Ambassador Eklil officers, meeting of the Society I hope that our colleagues enjoy 3 A. Hakimi members with Ambassador reading the newsletter.
Hakimi, and interview with 4 Responses to Readers’ Comments Mr. Wahid Enayat, President of Please let me if you have a Enayat Schneider Engineering, technical article or news for the 5 Technical News from Afghanistan Inc. Also, there are articles SAE eNewsletter; or if you have any questions, comments, or about organic fertilizer and 5 Organic Fruits and Vegetables construction materials testing suggestion regarding the improvement of Society laboratory qualification program 8 Afghan Professional Community activities, especially, the in Afghanistan. News from Abroad contents of the SAE On behalf of the Editorial Board eNewsletter. Your opinions 8 Interview with Mr. Wahid Enayat of the Society of Afghan always count. Engineers, I congratulate University of Florida Admission and Ambassador Hakimi on his new Very Truly Yours, 12 IRF Fellowship Grant Program position as the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of 15 2011 SAE Election Afghanistan to the United States Ghulam Mujtaba of America. He has met three 16 Membership News G. Mujtaba, MS- CE, P.E., CPM times with Society members and 20 Achievements and Awards discussed the possibilities of Editor- In- Chief, Quality Control of Construction participation of the SAE 20 Materials in Afghanistan members in the reconstruction SAE eNewsletter of our beloved Afghanistan. He Membership Application/Renewal has joined the Society of Afghan 23 Updates Engineers, as member of the “The newsletter features the latest Society. The Society has events at the SAE and any other received his generous donations. issues important to the growth of the Society and its members.” The SAE is pleased to have Mr. Hakimi on their team. The
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President’s Message
The Environment Week 2011 was from June 5 to 11. In most countries, this week is considered an opportunity to learn more about the local clean environment and what the society as a whole can do to protect it. In Afghanistan however, it was a week that some newspapers; radio programs; and TV stations dedicated segments of their papers and air times discussing the environmental conditions in Afghanistan in general and in Kabul in particular. Unfortunately, the majority of people do not know what the environment means let alone how to protect it.
The main contributing factors polluting the environment in Kabul include the following:
Overcrowded city and overcrowded households, Unplanned and informal slums (particularly on top of the hills and mountains in Kabul) without water, sanitation, transportation, and other infrastructures, Lack of solid waste management systems and disposal facilities, Too many old vehicles, low quality fuel… old generators, Uncontrolled burning of tires, plastic and other solid waste, Lack of awareness, regulations and/or enforcement, and political well to address environmental problems, Deforestation, Water and wind erosion, and so on.
Environmental degradation and pollution in Kabul have become major health and economic issues for the residents of Kabul. Some of the adverse impacts of the pollution have been documented as follows:
The Ministry of Public Health of Afghanistan estimates that around 3,000 people die every year from environmental pollution in Kabul. The Ministry reports that there have been nearly 500,000 cases of respiratory illness within the past 9 years According to a 2005-2006 report published by United Nations Environment Program, 60 per cent of the population in Kabul is exposed to elevated concentrations of particulate matter, nitrous oxides and sulfur dioxide. The emissions of old cars reportedly cause 70 to 75 percent of air pollution in Kabul. World Health Organization estimates that suspended particulate matter leads to death of over 0.5 million people in the world and the economic cost of air pollution close to 2% of the Gross Domestic Product.
High-density unplanned urban slums place huge demands on limited urban services and infrastructure; including energy supply, waste management, water and sanitation infrastructure, roads, agricultural land while aggravating urban air. With insufficient and no systematic solid waste collection and disposal facilities, the result is large piles of solid waste dumped at every street corner, spread open by scavengers and stray animals. Wind carries germs and stingy smells from the dumps to all over the neighborhood and inhaled by the residents.
High-density settlement on top of the hills and mountains in Kabul without proper drainage, sanitation and access to clean water is another major cause of air pollution in Kabul. Runoff from rainfall and snow- milt transport human waste down the hills and deposited it on mostly dirt streets below. The waste is then carried by vehicle tires onto paved roads. When dry, the waste will be grounded into very fine particles, which can easily be blown into the air by moving traffic and wind and pollute the air.
During the Environment Week 2011, experts in radio and TV shows and in newspapers discussed ways to reduce pollution and prevent further deterioration of the environment in Kabul and in Afghanistan. Nearly every expert agrees educating the public is a must in protecting the environment. A systematic and long term environmental awareness campaign supported by public and private sectors is urgently needed for protecting the environment and preventing its further deterioration.
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I urge all of the SAE eNewsletter readers and experts in environmental sciences to share their knowledge and expertise in assisting the government and educating the public about the importance of protecting the environment with Afghanistan and Afghans and to propose cost effective solutions that would mitigate the damages done and prevent further deterioration of the environment.
Abdul Hadi Rakin, P.E.
A Message from Ambassador Eklil A. Hakimi
September 1, 2011 Dear Society of Afghan Engineers, I am honored to be a member of your prestigious organization and I look forward to participating in your future programs. Afghanistan has come a long way in the past decade. Afghanistan is now a democracy with a thriving independent press. There is an emerging and vibrant civil society. Our healthcare system provides basic services to two-thirds of the population. Up to eight million students are enrolled in schools; close to 40% of the students are female. Lastly, Afghanistan’s economy is improving and there is great potential in our infrastructure and mineral resources industry. As engineers we understand the significant role engineering could play in the reconstruction and development of Afghanistan’s infrastructure. The knowledge, technology, and expertise that engineers contribute are crucial to the reconstruction effort. Engineers hold a particularly important role in developing Afghanistan’s infrastructure and mining industries, industries that have the potential to create millions of jobs and strongly boost the Afghan economy. We are embarking on a new era in Afghanistan’s history and now, more than ever, our country needs the help of its engineers. I encourage all of you to get involved in the reconstruction/development process in Afghanistan. By working together we can bring peace and prosperity back to our country.
Sincerely,
Eklil A. Hakimi Ambassador of Afghanistan “I encourage all of you to get involved in the reconstruction/development process in Afghanistan. By working together we can bring peace and prosperity back to our country.”
Editor’s note: Ambassador Eklil Hakimi is ambassador of Afghanistan in Washington, D.C. He joined the Society of Afghan Engineers. His biography is included Membership News section of the SAE eNewsletter.
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Responses to Readers’ Comments
The SAE eNewsletter editor, received comments related to the third quarterly newsletter, which was published in July 2011. The comments have been addressed to the Editor-In-Chief, SAE eNewsletter (Editor). The responses to the comments and notes are also provided by the Editor. The responses to the readers’ comments have been sent by the emails. In order to make the information to the point, some parts of the correspondence have been deleted. The deletions include the closing part of the responses, Editor’s name, his title, and signature.
The following are their comments and Editor’s responses:
Professor Zabihullah Hamidi’s comments, from Australia:
Ustad Mohtaram,
Thanks for sending me the latest eNewsletter. It is a great job you perform.
Wish you all the best. Hamidi.
Editor’s Response:
Dear Ustad Mohtaram Hamidi Sahib Salam:
Thanks for the email and kind words. I am very pleased to know that you have received the SAE eNewsletter in Australia. I have copied the newsletter editorial board members and they will be very pleased to see an email and comments from their well respected former Kabul University professor. Thanks for the valuable suggestions and advices that you have provided for the improvement of the newsletter. Last year you helped us and reviewed articles for SAE Conference. The Society members appreciated your advices.
We are looking forward to the receipt of your continued professional contributions to the newsletter by sending your technical articles, comments, suggestions, and advices.
Mr. Nazir Noorzay’s comments: Nice work Ustad-e-gerami and thanks for sharing it with me.
Regards, Nazir Noorzay Editor’s Response: Noorzay Sahib Salam:
Thanks for the email and your contributions to the SAE eNewsletter. It is always a pleasure to read your email and to know that you are in good health and spirit.
Dean Zia A. Yamayee’s comments:
Dear Ustad Mujtaba Saalam:
Thank you for sending me the recent copy of the SAE eNewsletter. I know it takes a lot of time and effort to put together such a fine publication. Thank you and the members of the board for your time, energy, and dedication.
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The Newsletter is a great source of information for Afghans and others interested in Afghanistan both inside and outside Afghanistan, especially the engineering community. I appreciate your excellent work.
Have a wonderful day, Zia Zia A. Yamayee, Ph.D., P.E., SMIEEE Br. Godfrey Vassallo, C.S.C. Distinguished Professor of Engineering Donald P. Shiley School of Engineering University of Portland 5000 North Willamette Blvd. Portland, OR 97203 Phone: 503-943-8556
Editor’s Response: Dear Dean Yamayee Salam:
Thanks for the email and your comments regarding the SAE eNewsletter. On behalf of the SAE Editorial Board, Board of Directors, and Executive Committee, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the time that you took from your busy schedule to have an interview with Editor of the newsletter. I consider your interview responses and information to be excellent guide for those who want to develop their scholastic background, professional career, and leadership role.
We are looking forward to your continued support of the SAE eNewsletter by sending us your articles, comments, and suggestions.
Technical News from Afghanistan
Afghanistan’s Efforts in Acquiring International Organic Certification for her Fruits, Vegetables, and Crops
By: Dr. M. Nadir Sidiqi
Proper food and balance nutrition are necessary for every human locally and globally. The diverse climate and fertile soil of Afghanistan are suitable to raise livestock and grow a variety of delicious fruits, vegetables, and crops. Already the country has fruits and vegetables of very high quality and nutritional value such as grapes, pomegranates, melons, oranges, watermelon, etc.; without being polluted by harmful pesticides. Since January 23, 2010, Afghan government has declared a ban of synthetic fertilizers, such as ammonium nitrate. The ban of these synthetic fertilizers, which are of an explosive nature, is for the protection and safety of the Afghan nation as well other nations that import Afghan fruits, vegetables, and crops to their countries.
After the ban, there are now several important issues in the mind of every Afghan farmer. What should be used on crops? How can there be a good yield crop production without using a fertilizer? It is imperative that these concerns are addressed as agriculture is a vertebra column of the Afghan nation and their livelihood. Agriculture is the key engine of every nation and plays a vital role in the global economy. One solution to address this concern for all Afghan farmers is the use of safe, non-toxic organic fertilizers as an alternative to dangerous synthetic fertilizers.
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Let us define what is organic fertilizer? A textbook definition of organic fertilizer is a fertilizing product that contains Carbon (C). Carbon is considered “The Organic Molecule,” as it is present in all living organisms. In addition, the agricultural industry defines organic fertilizer as a fertilizing product that meets the standards of the international organic certification rules and regulations. Generally speaking, organic products are not produced via chemical reaction and occur naturally and biologically without toxic effects, supplying proper and necessary nutrients to the soil, which ultimately get absorbed by the plant. This process can be made through specific rules such as composting, microbial actions, grinding and pelletizing.
Synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, which include herbicides (kill weeds), insecticides (kill insects), fungicides (kill fungi), and bactericides (kill bacteria) have many adverse effects. They directly or indirectly pollute beneficial organisms and their environment. In the past two decades, this has become a highly crucial issue for human health and the environmental safety, especially in the developed countries and has encouraged the growers and consumers to grow and purchase organic products. Nevertheless, Afghan farming is already traditionally growing crops and organically raised livestock, and this heritage needs to be maintained without polluting health in the beautiful country of Afghanistan.
As an example, synthetic fertilizers do not kill many soil organisms directly, but the effect of the high dose of nutrients makes the plant lose its ability to form beneficial associations with beneficial soil organisms, such as mycorrhizae and rhizobium. As a result, the plant loses its ability to obtain water and nutrients from the soil and becomes dependent on continuous high levels of nutrients and water from foreign sources. The plants then begin to appear under stress or low on nutrients and ultimately become more susceptible to pathogen attack and insect infestation. Afghan farmers cannot afford for this to happen, as they already suffer from limited agricultural resources, due to three decades of unfortunate and destructive war. They are hopeless and looking forward to a possible solution for sustainable livelihood. In order to assist the farmers in fulfilling this vital need, there is an honest collaboration among international donors, the Afghan government and Afghan nation for the distribution of environmentally friendly, natural organic fertilizer.
These natural products are further classified in the following categories:
1. Plant by-products: Alfalfa meal or pellets, Corn gluten meal, Cottonseed meal, Soybean meal.
Alfalfa, Source: traum.aid.com . Corn, Source: abceed Cotton, Source: djc.com Soybean, Source: kyagr.com
Alfalfa meal or pellets Corn gluten meal Cottonseed meal Soybean meal
Source: Organic Info Source: duckol.com Source: Organic Information Source: Organic Information 2. Animal by-products: Bat guano – high N, Bat guano- high P, Blood meal, Bone meal, Feather meal, Fish emulsion: Enzymatically digested hydrolyzed liquid fish, Fish meal, Fish powder.
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Bat, Source: fs.fed.us Cattle, source: freefoto.com Animal bones, source: fas.harvard.edu Poultry, source: cals.msstate.edu Fish, source: web.mit.edu
Bat guano-high N Blood meal Bone meal Feather meal Fish emulsion
Source: aliba.com Source: Organic Gardening Source: Organic Information Source: Organic Information Source: grow better veggies 3. Compost: Manure and bio solids based product.
4. Rock powders: Colloidal phosphate. 5. Seaweed: Kelp meal, Kelp powder, Liquid kelp.
The above pictures exhibit a few examples of the flavors of organic fertilizer even though detail of material description and mode of action is beyond the scope of this brief paper. However, all products listed above might not be currently and readily available in usable form in Afghanistan, but these natural products or raw based materials, and with some exceptions and potential opportunity for aquaculture (the farming of aquatic organisms such as fish, crustaceans, mollusks and aquatic plants= and seaweed), can be easily manufactured by the Afghan government or an authorized agency. The production and application of organic fertilizer would be great assistance in maintaining and conserving the high quality of delicious fruits, vegetables, and agriculture products of Afghanistan. As a result, this will hopefully lead the country to become a certified organic grower at the international standard market and improve quality of livelihood, maintain and conserve biodiversity, and reduce toxicity to the public health and environment.
Acknowledgements
I am thankful to Mr. Ghulam Mujtaba, Mr. Manan Khalid, and Dr. Abdul Wahid Hassani; the Editorial Board members of the SAE eNewsletter for their review, valuable inputs, and publishing of this article. I hope this will be useful with a potential opportunity towards healthy food production in Afghanistan.
References 1. Adrian Card, David Whiting, and Carl Wilson (Colorado State University Extension) and Jean Reeder, Ph.D., (USDA-ARS, retired) Organic Fertilizers. 2. http://articles.sfgate.com 3. Ohio Earth Food, http://www.ohioearthfood.com/ohioearthfood.htm 4. Organic garden info.com http://www.organicgardeninfo.com/bone-meal.html 5. Sara Williams, Fertilizer: Application (Organic Vs. Inorganic). 6. Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (Aquaculture)
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Biography M. Nadir Sidiqi obtained his B.S. degree in Horticulture Science at the Agricultural University Peshawar Pakistan (1989), and his MS in 2003 Plant Sciences at California State Polytechnic University. He pursued his Ph.D. in 2004 as his life contribution in New Mexico State University (department of biology). Due to his adviser’s retirement the New Mexico University awarded him his second Master degree (Biology) and thus he transferred his Ph.D. to Atlantic International University as Ph.D. candidate. After the completion of the additional program requirements with the Atlantic International University and obtained his Ph.D. (Agriculture Science) in August 2009. He holds a license as an agricultural adviser with the State of California, department of pesticide regulation. Currently is the CEO/president of Organic Ecocare Inc., which provides seminar and continuing education for the State of California department of pesticide regulation. He has been invited as a guest speaker in an Afghan TV channel based in California, conferences and hosts for the Islam and Science show on Arman TV based in San Francisco, California.
Afghan Professional Community News from Abroad
The Afghan professional community news and other topics of interest from abroad are as follows:
Interview with Mr. Wahid Enayat, P.E., S.E., President Enayat Schneider Engineering, Inc By: Ghulam Mujtaba, P.E.CPM
Mr. Wahid Enayat is the President of Enayat Schneider Engineering, Inc. He has over twenty one years of experience in engineering industry. His experience covers a wide range of building designs with extensive experience in precast concrete, tilt-up concrete, structural steel, wood frame, and reinforced concrete structures. He has designed light and heavy industrial facilities, healthcare facilities, food processing plants, parking structures, office buildings, multifamily residential buildings, retail stores, churches, correctional institutions, and educational facilities.
He is registered Structural Engineer in the States of Colorado, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Arizona, Iowa, Indiana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Hawaii, Idaho, Texas, Montana, Alaska, and Wyoming. As a Civil Engineer, Mr. Enayat is registered in the States of California, Washington, Montana, South Dakota, and Kansas
Mr. Enayat is a member of the Structural Engineers Association of Oregon and a member of the Society of Afghan Engineers. He has earned his Master of Science Degree in Structural Engineering from University of Nebraska- Lincoln in 1990 and Bachelor of Science Degree in Architecture, from the same University in 1988.
As a project Manager, he has been involved in the design and construction inspection activities of a few building projects, including the eight-story residential, retail, and office building; the eight-story structural steel framing on top of a post-tensioned concrete deck; offices, restaurants, shops and housing; low to medium rise wood and steel framed buildings; and a 19- story tower with post- tensioned concrete slabs, cast- in- place concrete columns, and deep pile foundation.
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The Society of Afghan Engineers is very delighted to see the development and progress of their members in Afghanistan and abroad. Mr. Enayat is one of those successful professionals who have established their own engineering design and consulting companies.
The author has known Mr. Enayat personally. He is considered to be an exemplary successful Afghan structures engineer whose company has completed the design of many projects in different states of the United States.
The SAE eNewsletter will include the interviews with successful businessperson or academia in every issue of its publication. For the fourth issue of the newsletter, the author asked Mr. Enayat if he has time for interview with editor of the SAE eNewsletter. Mr. Enayat graciously accepted the author’s request.
The following are the interview questions/discussions (Q) and Mr. Enayat’s responses (R):
Q: Mr. Enayat, first of all I would like to thanks you for accepting our request for interview, with editor of the SAE eNewsletter. Although, I have known you and your respected family for many years and I am well acquainted with your architectural and engineering work, but I will ask questions so that the readers know about you and your company; Enayat Schneider Engineering, Inc.
Please briefly tell us about yourself, your parents, the city that you are born, schools that you have attended, and degrees that you have earned.
R: I was born in Kabul, Afghanistan. My father was a military officer with the Afghanistan Air Force. My Mother was a professor at the University of Kabul teaching biology. My parents visited United States several times for training and higher education in the 60’s and 70’s. In 1969 my parents decided to bring the entire family to the U.S while they were finishing their training and education. My mother was studying to receive her Master’s of Science degree in Biology at the Auburn University and my father was training with the U.S. Air Force in Montgomery, Alabama. After completing their training and education, we returned to Afghanistan in 1972. During the first day that the communist regime took control of the government from President Dawood in 1978, my father went Missing In Action and never returned home. One year later my mother found out what happened and decided to leave the county in 1979.
Q: We are very sorry for the great loss and hardship that you and your family have experienced. May God give you Sabr and Ajr and grant your father Janna Firdaus.
When did you leave Afghanistan and start your education in the United States?
R: Our family left Afghanistan when I was in 10th grade studying at the Habibia High School in 1979. I started my education in the U.S. by attending 10th grade in high school in Omaha, Nebraska.
Q: For how long did you work with another agency/employer, prior to establishment of your own company?
R: I worked for one year with a very large company designing electrical transmission poles and substation structures. The company was fairly large with over 1,400 employees.
Q: What was the motivation for establishment of your own design firm in lieu of working as an employee of another engineering company? Can you tell us a little about your background and history that led to establishment of your company in the United States?
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R: I truly believe that immense opportunities are available in life and people have to work hard to get them. My main motivation in life has always been to think 5 years ahead and see where I would be in 5 years and take necessary actions today to achieve the goals I set for myself. When I worked for one year at a large company, I did not like where I was going to end up in 5 years; so I changed jobs and started working with a small engineering consulting firm, whose principals are my partners now in the business.
When I started working with the consulting firm, I set my goal very high and asked for where I see myself to be. I barred others to make decision on my behalf to limit my abilities within the company; I demanded on where I wanted to be and if I performed to that level, I needed to be rewarded for my efforts. I am a very strong believer of if we want something; we should ask for it. I believe that we should not sell ourselves too short, because Afghan people are as good if not better as the others.
Taken calculated risks in life is a very important factor. Working for a small startup consulting firm, was very risky and did not offer any type of job security, but the challenges were interesting and motivating. I encourage everyone to not be afraid of taking risks that are reasonably planned.
Q: Please tell us the process and requirements for establishment of an engineering office in the United States, especially in the states that you have opened your office.
R: I have started two of our four offices across the United States. In both cases, establishing the office was very simple. Renting an office space, purchasing computers and office furniture and registering the business with the State and local agencies are very easy. The hard part of starting an office is getting clients that trust your work and want to use your services. Consulting firm is a “Service” driven business. The better the service the busier the work load. Our goals with our employees have been to provide the best service by not over designing a project which will cost a lot and also not to under design a project so we will not endanger human lives or be legally prosecuted. Good engineering is a fine line between not being overly conservative and severely under designed. Another rule that helped us significantly with our design firm is not to get emotionally involved with our designs and always listen to contractors and field personnel around us and listen to their ideas. A good engineer is recognized 20% by his or her education and 80% by real life experience. Experience is a very important part of being a great engineer and to gain more experience is to learn from the others around us.
Q: Please let us know about types of work that your company performs, your company organizational structures, headquarter, branch offices, and number of employees in each offices.
R: Our work varies from office to office. We have four offices which are located in Omaha, Nebraska; Denver, Colorado; Dallas, Texas; and Portland, Oregon. The Omaha office works mostly with heavy industrial clients working on projects such as meat slaughtering facility, ethanol refineries, oil refineries, grain elevators, and food processing plants. The Dallas office works mostly on military projects and office buildings. The Denver and Portland offices are working mostly on multifamily housing, retail, post- tensioned, precast parking garages, and senior housing.
Our staff ranges anywhere from 15 to 20 employees in each location. Our company is not headquartered in any one particular location. Each office is operated individually with the managing partners seeing the daily operations. Our companies are managed by three partners. The Omaha office is managed by our partner Jerry Schneider. The Dallas office is managed by our partner Mike Stenstorm. I manage the operations of Denver and Portland offices. Our Omaha office was started in 1987 by Jerry Schneider. I joined the company in 1990. I started the Portland office in 1995 and the Denver office in 2000. Dallas office was started by our partner Mike Stenstorm in 1999.
Q: Does your company perform geotechnical investigation, construction inspection, and testing services of your projects?
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R: Our companies do not provide geotechnical investigation. We provide construction inspection and project management. Our Denver office provides testing service for post- tension systems and post-tension installation inspection which are used in the concrete industry for more efficient concrete design and cost effectiveness. It is a newer technology which begun in late 1980’s but was not fully developed until late 90’s.
Q: Please provide us a few examples of the projects that your company has performed, especially the projects that you have been involved as their project manager.
R: The largest project I have designed and served as the project manager was a $90 million meat processing and slaughtering facility near San Diego, California. The challenging part of the project was that it was being built directly over the San Andria Fault line and almost every week there was a seismic activity making the construction and design very challenging. My other projects consists of 19 story senior housing project in Denver, 400 to 500 units apartment in multiple locations with two to three levels of underground parking and retail space. My most gratifying project was to build a school in Mexico for the homeless kids.
Q: It is very impressive to know about the projects that your company have successfully completed. What has been the key to the success of your company?
R: The key element for the success of our company has been to value our employees and treat them with utmost respect. “A company is as good as the aptitude of its employees.”
Q: Your Company has been involved in the design of wood frame; structural steel buildings; and pre-tensioned and post-tensioned concrete products. What do think about the application of these types products for buildings and bridges in Afghanistan?
R: I believe all the materials indicated are being used in Afghanistan with the exception of post-tensioned concrete. Wood is not as commonly used for the same application as used in the United States. My experience with projects in Afghanistan is that the quality control is very hard to maintain, therefore the projects are severely over designed to compensate for lack of material quality and workmanship. By determining a good program for quality control, the cost of projects will be reduced significantly. I see post-tension concrete as a great application for the midrise buildings that are being built in Afghanistan. By use of post-tension tendons in floor slabs, the concrete volume in a building will reduce approximately 30% to 40%.
Q: How have you contributed to professional assistance of the Afghan communities in Afghanistan and in the United States?
R: I have designed and constructed few masques in the United States for the Afghan community. In Afghanistan I have designed several projects in the past few years, but I have not been able to contribute as I would like to help the average Afghan community. My mission for the near future is to start an engineering consulting firm in Afghanistan and to train local Afghan engineers to become better engineers and to excel themselves.
Q: What type of advice you may have for young Afghans who plan to pursue their graduate studies in the field of architecture or structures in the United States, especially for those who want to establish their own companies?
R: My advice for the young engineers is to never be afraid of challenges and always take the hard road and set very high standards for themselves.
Q: How could Afghan professionals like yourself or your company be of service to the professionals of their native country from the United States?
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R: As I indicated earlier, I like to start a consulting company in Afghanistan and train young Afghan engineers on how to design complex structures. I also like to teach the Afghan engineers on how to design post- tension concrete building and introduce them to the technology that now is very popular in the West.
Q: What types of advice you offer for Afghan architects and engineers who are working in the United States or other countries outside Afghanistan and simultaneously want to serve their motherland?
R: For all the Afghan architects and engineers who are working in the United States, I like to ask for their advice, because they are excellent engineers and architects and have achieved much greater objectives and have served Afghanistan much better than I have been able to do.
Q: Please advise if you have any further comments or suggestions that you may have for the development of the SAE eNewsletter.
R: I have always been proud of SAE board members and directors. The organization is truly surviving because of their hard work and dedication. Their knowledge and leadership have proven to be noteworthy and remarkable. I applaud the organization’s effort to keep all Afghan engineers informed and in contact with each other and with the outside world.
Q: Thank you for taking the time to share with us valuable information about your company. I would like to congratulate you and your company in performing the high caliber architectural and engineering work in the United States. The readers of the SAE eNewsletter certainly benefit from your project case histories and lessons learned. Finally, what advice would you offer to the Society of Afghan Engineers regarding their future activities and services related to the rebuilding of Afghan infrastructures?
R: The construction in Afghanistan is lacking quality of work. I like to suggest we should do whatever necessary within our powers to educate the industry by providing quality control and inspection programs for contractors.
Thank you for this opportunity and for allowing me to providing my story and point of view through this interview. I truly appreciate it and am flattered by the attention and the reverence.
“I truly believe that immense opportunities are available in life and people have to work hard to get them.” “A company is as good as the aptitude of its employees.”
University of Florida Admission Procedures
IRF Fellowship Grant Program
The Editor of SAE eNewsletter requested Professor Mang Tia and Professor Fazil Tawab Najafi to advise us of the admission procedure for the graduate program of the Department Civil and Coastal Engineering of the University of Florida (UF). Also, the Editor asked them to include information about the availability of fellowship grants for such enrollments. This will assist Afghan civil engineering students who will be interested to enroll at the UF graduate programs. Professors, Dr. M. Tia and Dr. F. Tawab Najafi, graciously accepted the Editor’s request and provided the following information about admission procedure and International Road Federation (IRF) fellowship program for graduate engineers.
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The SAE eNewsletter Editorial Board appreciates the time that the UF professors have taken from their busy schedule to submit valuable document to newsletter for publication. We are certain that their information will be beneficial for those who are planning to pursue their graduate studies at UF and want apply for IRF fellowship grant. For more information, the readers may contact Dr. Najafi and Dr. Tia at the following address:
Dr. Fazil T. Najafi Professor Dept. of Civil and Coastal Engineering University of Florida P.O. Box 116580 Gainesville, FL 32611 [email protected] http://plaza.ufl.edu/fnaja (o) 352-392-9537 x1493 (f) 352-392-3394 (h)352-335-8583
Mang Tia, Ph.D., P.E. Professor and Associate Chair P.O. Box 116580, Rm 365 Weil Hall University of Florida Gainesville, FL 32611 Phone: 1-352-3929537 X1463 (O) 1-352-3768720 (H)
Department of Civil and Coastal Engineering
University of Florida
ADMISSIONS PROCEDURES
By: Professor Mang Tia, Ph.D., P.E.
1. Application/Statement of Purpose/Letters of Recommendation: The University of Florida application for admissions can be completed on-line at www.admissions.ufl.edu. An applicant is asked to also submit his/her statement of purpose (or letter of intent) and the names and e-mail addresses of three individuals who will be providing a letter of recommendation for the student.
2. Transcripts: The applicant is required to send in official transcripts from all previous colleges and universities that he/she has attended. These transcripts should be sent directly to the University of Florida, Office of Admissions, 201 Criser Hall, P.O. Box 114000, Gainesville, FL 32611. INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS: If you are an international student, you must submit transcripts in the original language with a certified English translation and a copy of the degree or certificate in the original language with a certified English translation.
3. Test Scores: ALL APPLICANTS: 13 | P a g e
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GRE scores are required with the exception of one particular situation. If the applicant holds a Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) certificate and he/she will be obtaining a non-thesis Masters degree, the applicant can request verification from the PE Board of the state where the FE certificate was obtained. This verification should be sent directly to University of Florida, Office of Admissions. In this case, the GRE scores should not be sent. If the department receives GRE scores prior to receiving the FE, the GRE scores will be used for admissions consideration and not the FE.
INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS ONLY:
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), IELTS (International English Language Testing System), MELAB (Michigan English Language Assessment Battery) or successful completion of the University of Florida’s English Language Institute program are required of all International students, unless the students native language is English or the student has spent at least 1 academic year in a degree-seeking program at a college or university in a country where English is the official language, if their attendance was in the year immediately prior to UF admission.
The required scores are: TOEFL – paper=550, computer=213, (IBT) web=80 IELTS – 6
MELAB – 77
4. Application for Fellowship or Assistantship (optional) The application can be found at:
http://gradschool.rgp.ufl.edu/pdf-files/fellowship-assistantship-form.pdf
Complete the form and send it directly to the Civil and Coastal Engineering department if you want to be considered for this type of funding. The due dates are: September 1 for the Spring term and January 30 for the Fall term.
5. Resume (optional) You may submit your resume as a supporting document. It should be sent directly to the department.
Note: In his email, dated September 21, 2011, addressed to Mr. Jeremy Adams, Professor Tia has indicated that the graduate students may take some of their graduate courses online. A master degree requires 30 credits. It is possible to finish it in two semesters and a summer term, or in three semesters.
IRF Fellowship Grant Program
By: Professor Fazil Tawab Najafi, Ph.D.
The IRF grant is disbursed by the International Road Federation (IRF). IRF is a nongovernmental, not-for- profit organization with the mission to encourage and promote development and maintenance of better, safer, and more sustainable roads and road networks. The organization is involved in the worldwide development of the road policy by providing expertise. It supports national road associations, advocacy groups, companies and institutions dedicated to the development of road infrastructure by providing
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A QUARTERLY UPDATE FROM THE SOCIETY OF AFGHAN ENGINEERS required information. The organization has connections with more than 110 countries in order to provide best practices and expert advice to world of transport.
In support of full-time academic training, the IRF Program provides a one-time grant toward the costs of university graduate study in fields related to the development of better and safer roads and road networks worldwide.
The IRF Fellowship Program works with a core group of universities, including, Arizona State University, University of Florida, Central Florida University, Purdue University, Virginia Tech, Ohio State University, Georgia Tech, Northwestern University, University of Texas at Austin, and George Mason University. Some of these universities have agreed to offer IRF Fellows in-state tuition. All of the schools, with the exception of Purdue University, are for a degree program. Purdue University allows the Fellows to enroll in a non-degree program. The following website link provides admission requirements to the University of Florida Civil Engineering Department: http://www.ce.ufl.edu/
The selection of candidates is based on their strong academic background, professional qualifications and leadership potential. The IRF fellowship program requires the candidates to return to their home countries upon completion of the program.
The IRF website provides useful information about IRF; their Road scholar programs, fellowship, awards, and application method; core universities, and publications. It provides the details of the selection criteria for the fellowship program and selection process of the fellowship candidates. The detailed information about the organization and its fellowship grant program is available at the following IRF website:
http://irfnews.org/fellowships/
The Society of Afghan Engineers’ 2011 Election
The Society of Afghan Engineers will elect their President and 9 members of the Board of Directors in 2011. The newly elected members will start their work on January 1, 2012 and continue until December 31, 2014. The election committee will supervise the election process. The bylaws of the Society of Afghan Engineers mandate that the results of the election to be announced by December15, 2011. In accordance with the bylaws, the Election Committee members have been formed and started their activities. Mr. M. Saber Sarwary will serve as the Chairman of the Election Committee and Mr. Baseer Abdiani, Mr. Najib Kazimi, Mr. Ghulam Qadir, and Ms. Aziza Tarin will serve as Committee members.
Mr. Sarwary, the Election Committee Chairman, has sent the following announcement by Email, SAE website, and this newsletter to all members of the Society:
ELECTION 2011
In accordance with Sections 4-3, 5-3 and 6 of SAE bylaws, SAE members will elect their president, along with nine members of the Board of Directors for the 2012-2014 service term. Mr. Sarwary
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With the deadline for the election date coming upon us, we are happy to announce that the Election Committee will receive nominations for president and board members as stated in the SAE bylaws and manual. Please note that per section 3-4(3) of the bylaws only regular members are permitted as candidates or nominees for these explicit elected positions. Also, please confirm that the potential nominee agrees to be a candidate prior to nominating that person. All members are cordially invited and strongly encouraged to participate in the year’s election by nominating others or self as candidates for SAE President or Board Members. Please submit the following for all nominees: President (One Position)
A short biography of the nominee A short essay describing the nominee’s vision for the future of SAE Board Members ( Nine Positions)
A brief biography of the nominee Please be sure to review the position description and responsibilities as stated in the SAE bylaws and manual before agreeing to be a candidate or submitting nominations for candidacy. The Election Committee will create and distribute a voting ballot after the receipt of nomination. The deadline for the receipt of nominations is October 15, 2011. Sincerely, M Saber Sarwary, P.E Chairman, Election Committee Society of Afghan Engineers
Please copy all Election Committee members in your emails and correspondence when you contact Election Committee
Membership News New Members in 2011
It is a privilege that Mr. Hakimi, the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to the United States of America, joined as a member of the Society of Afghan Engineers. The following is the biography of Ambassador Hakimi, as submitted Ms. Michaella H. Seaman Assistant to H.E. Eklil A. Hakimi, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to the United States of America.
AMBASSADOR’S BIO Eklil Ahmad Hakimi Ambassador
Embassy of Afghanistan
Washington, D.C.
The President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Hamid Karzai, has appointed Ambassador Hakimi to play a major role in facilitating and assisting with the massive reconstruction efforts that lie ahead. Furthermore, his appointment is an attempt to further strengthen bilateral ties and the strategic partnership between Afghanistan and the United States of America.
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Ambassador Hakimi is a career diplomat with well-established credentials in numerous fields. He obtained a Master’s degree from the Kabul Polytechnic Institute in 1991. The Ambassador previously worked as an adviser in the fields of policy formulation, government reform, and institutional capacity building at the Independent Administrative Reform and Civil Service Commission and the Office of the Vice President, during 2002 and 2005. Additionally, he has expert knowledge in engineering and strategic planning.
In 2005, Ambassador Hakimi was appointed as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Afghanistan to the People’s Republic of China, while serving as non-resident Ambassador to Mongolia and Socialist Republic of Vietnam. He also served as Afghanistan’s Ambassador to Japan, and was appointed as Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs in 2010. In these positions, Ambassador Hakimi participated in numerous diplomatic initiatives, and had significant achievements. He played an influential role in strengthening ties between donor countries and various ministries of Afghanistan, as well as in regional cooperation and integration through economic projects, diplomatic outreach and coordination between regional and international actors.
Ambassador Hakimi is fluent in Dari and English, and is well-versed in Pashto, Urdu, and French. He was educated at the Istiqlal French High School, and later enrolled at the Kabul Polytechnic Institute. He continued to further his education in the United States, and subsequently gained employment in various engineering projects dealing with management, marketing, and strategic planning.
In addition to his assignment as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Afghanistan to the United States, Ambassador Hakimi will serve as Afghanistan’s non-resident envoy to Mexico, Brazil, Colombia and Argentina.
Ambassador Eklil Ahmad Hakimi is married and has three daughters.
Email from SAE President to Ambassador Hakimi, dated August 28, 2011
Mr. A. Hadi Rakin, SAE President, has sent a welcome note to the Ambassador on behalf of the Society, on August 28, 2011, as depicted below:
Dear Ambassador Hakimi:
First of all on behalf of the officers and members of the Society of Afghan Engineers (SAE) I congratulate you on your appointment as the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to the United States of America. This is a well-deserved appointment indeed, and I want to wish you success in your new position.
I thank you for the time that you have taken from your busy schedule to meet with the SAE members on July 1 and 22, 2011. It was a privilege for me to meet you during your second meeting with the representatives of the SAE, which was held on July 22, 2011. We enjoyed our meetings with you and Mr. Sorosh at the Embassy and were impressed with your ideas and inspirations.
The Society members are very pleased with your interest in Society activities. We have received your SAE membership application, membership fee, and generous donation. The Society of Afghan Engineers
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A QUARTERLY UPDATE FROM THE SOCIETY OF AFGHAN ENGINEERS is fortunate to have you on their team. Your engineering knowledge, experience, and leadership will play a major role in the Society of Afghan Engineers' participation in the reconstruction activities of Afghan infrastructures.
The Society members are interested to read your message to them through the SAE eNewsletter. At your convenience, please send your message to Mr. Ghulam Mujtaba, Chairman, SAE Board of Directors and Editor-In-Chief, SAE eNewsletter at his email address at: [email protected]. The SAE e- Newsletter is published quarterly, and the next issue is due during the first week of October.
Once again, I welcome you as a member of the Society of Afghan Engineers.
Please accept my best wishes for continued success.
Respectfully yours,
The Society of Afghan Engineers
Abdul Hadi Rakin, P.E., M.S. CIE, M. ASCE President,
Email: Abdul Rakin Telephones: 703-955-0140 (cell), 703-250-8126 (home), +93-(0) 787-55-37-55. Membership Renewal 2011 By: Nagibullah Sayed, SAE Treasurer The Society of Afghan Engineers is supported by voluntary financial contributions of their members. The Treasurer has received 2011annual membership fee/ donations from a few members, which are listed in 2011 ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL REPORT, included in the following Table. The report includes the names of members who have supported the Society and the dates which the Treasurer has received their checks. Any inquiry related to the report or future contributions may be address to the Treasurer at his email address shown below: Email: [email protected] The attached form, at the last page of the newsletter, includes application for the new members and membership renewal. The application forms may be viewed at SAE website. The members are requested to take a few minutes of their time to inform the Society by sending their updated contact information. The completed application/renewal forms may be mailed to Mr. Nagib Sayed at P.O. Box 11520, Burke, Virginia 22009-1520 18 | P a g e A QUARTERLY UPDATE FROM THE SOCIETY OF AFGHAN ENGINEERS 2011 ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL REPORT Membership Renewal/Donation Last_Name First_Name Middle_Name Receipt Date Babacarkhial Abdul Nazeer 12/23/2010 Rahim Saboor A 1/17/2011 Mujtaba Ghulam 1/26/2011 Kadir Mark Q 2/9/2011 Hassani Abdul Wahed 2/10/2011 Hashemyan Sayed K 2/15/2011 Poya Mohammad Najib 2/16/2011 Rayek Mohammad Hashim 2/17/2011 Rakin Abdul Hadi 2/20/2011 Khalid Abdul M 2/21/2011 Munir Jacob 3/20/2011 Keshawarz Mohammad Saleh 4/11/2011 Rossi Stephen C 4/11/2011 Ebadi Yar M 4/12/2011 Abass Sayed Farid 4/16/2011 Enayat Wahid 4/25/2011 Baha Zarjon 4/26/2011 Argand Moheb 6/7/2011 Mommandi Amanullah 7/1/2011 Hakimi Eklil Ahmad 7/8/2011 Qadir Ghulam 7/12/2011 19 | P a g e A QUARTERLY UPDATE FROM THE SOCIETY OF AFGHAN ENGINEERS Achievements and Awards Congratulations to an SAE member, Bahaudin G. Mujtaba, D.B.A, professor of H. Wayne Huizenga School of Business and Entrepreneurship who has been recognized as one of the four finalists for the Provost’s Research and Scholarship Award. The first annual Provost’s Research and Scholarship Award has been presented by Nova Southeastern University Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Frank DePiano, Ph.D., to Professor Mark B. Sobell, Ph.D., ABPP, Center for Psychological Studies professor and researcher. The Provost also has recognized four finalists for the Provost’s Research and Scholarship Award. Dr. Bahaudin is one of the four finalists. The details of the news may be viewed at NSU publication “SharkBytes An Online Newsletter From NSU”, which may be viewed at the following website link: http://nsunews.nova.edu/psychology-professor-receives-provosts-research-scholarship-award/ “Please advise us of success stories, awards, or achievements of the Society members.” Quality Control of Construction Materials in Afghanistan: Laboratory Qualification Program By: Ghulam Mujtaba, M.S., CE, P.E, C.P.M Introduction: In the first issue of the newsletter the author provided outline of the suggested selection and utilization of quality construction materials and products in Afghanistan. It was mentioned that the quality control and quality assurance inspection and testing have important roles in the proper selection and use of the construction materials. The inspections and testing have to be performed by qualified testing laboratories that posses qualified testing personnel and testing equipment. This article discusses the laboratory qualification program, including laboratory evaluation, personnel qualification, facilities, and testing records. Also, recommendations are made related to maintaining a list of qualified laboratories in Afghanistan. Laboratory Qualification Program: In Afghanistan there is a need for the development of construction materials testing laboratory qualification program. The program should establish guidelines and requirements for the laboratories that are involved in the selection, use, testing, and inspection of the construction materials and products for Afghan construction and maintenance projects. The construction materials testing laboratories are those laboratories which measure, examine, and determine the characteristics or performance of materials and products. The testing laboratories should have quality 20 | P a g e A QUARTERLY UPDATE FROM THE SOCIETY OF AFGHAN ENGINEERS system programs which include the procedures and practices that they use to ensure compliance with the requirements of the applicable materials testing standards. The qualified laboratories have to maintain a quality manual of written procedures for ensuring the quality of services offered. The manual of written procedure may include the list of the laboratory inspection and testing services, including personnel training, equipment calibration and maintenance, a current library of test methods, and record of laboratory evaluation and proficiency testing programs. Laboratory Evaluation Program: The testing laboratories that are participating in the inspection and testing program of construction and maintenance activities have to be evaluated. The two accepted methods of evaluation are inspection and accreditation methods. The inspection agency performs and issues reports of the evaluation of laboratory’s testing equipment, procedures, and quality system. The accredited laboratory evaluation agencies may use the results of the inspection reports of an inspection agency or the results of their own assessment as one part of the accreditation process. The accreditation agencies should regularly establish inspection program of the testing laboratories to ensure that they continue the quality work. The inspection may include the review of the laboratory organization; personnel qualifications; test methods and procedures; facilities and testing equipment, supplementary procedures; and review of the testing agency records and reports. The accreditation process continues by including the reviews of the testing laboratory’s corrective action for the noted deficiencies and issuing of the accreditation certificates once the deficiencies have been corrected. The laboratory facilities, testing equipment, personnel, and procedures should be evaluated every two years by an evaluation authority to confirm its ability to perform the required tests. The evaluation agencies should meet the requirements of any of the accepted international accreditation programs or an established Afghan laboratory accreditation program which will be equivalent to an international accreditation agency program. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has developed many documents for laboratory accreditation systems, which may be used as guides for development of Afghan laboratory accreditation program. The Afghan accreditation agencies may inspect the laboratories on regular basis in accordance with Afghan Standard Specification and Test methods or adopt international agency standards such as American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) D 3740 for earthwork, ASTM D 3666 for asphalt, ASTM C 1077 for concrete test methods. Laboratory Personnel Qualification: ASTM C 1077 requires that the testing laboratories have to work under the technical direction of a professional engineer with minimum of 5 years of experience in construction materials testing. In Afghanistan, since there is no professional engineering license requirement, the laboratory technical supervisor has to have an engineering degree and at least five years of inspection and testing experience. The field and laboratory technicians have to have the required certifications for the testing that they perform in the laboratory or outside laboratory, respectively. The technician certification program should include written and performance examinations of the related tests that are covered by the laboratory certification program. The field testing technicians should have a minimum of 3 years of experience in addition to the possessing of the required certifications. 21 | P a g e A QUARTERLY UPDATE FROM THE SOCIETY OF AFGHAN ENGINEERS Laboratory Facilities: The testing laboratories should have the required facilities and equipment that meet the requirements of the applicable test methods. All equipment has to be calibrated or verified before start of their services. No out of tolerance testing equipment or equipment with defective condition should be used by the testing laboratories. Records of Laboratory Testing and Documentations: The testing laboratories should maintain a proper system of records of their sampling, testing, personnel certifications, audits, and calibration of the laboratory equipment. The records should be maintained for a period of at least three years from the time of testing or documentation. List of Qualified Laboratories: The laboratories that perform inspection and testing for Afghan infrastructure materials testing programs have to be on the list of the qualified laboratory accreditation agency. The laboratories have to meet the qualification requirements of the accreditation agency programs. Continued approval of the testing laboratory should be subject to satisfactory results from periodic evaluations of the testing laboratory by the accreditation agency. “The laboratories that perform inspection and testing for Afghan infrastructure materials testing programs have to be on the list of the qualified laboratory accreditation agency.” SAE E-Executive Committee Members: President: Abdul Hadi Rakin, Vice President-Administrative Affairs: Farid Abass, Vice President- Technical Affairs: Abdul Wahed Hassani, Treasurer: Nagib Sayed, and Secretary: Luis Durani SAE Board of Directors: Chairman: Ghulam Mujtaba; Members: Abdul Manan Khalid, Amanullah Mommandi, Iqbal Ahadi, Mohammad Najib Poya, M.Qasem Kadir, Mohammad Samey Stanackzai, Mohammad Yasin Khosti, and Mohammed Hashim Rayek SAE Past Presidents: Malik Mortaza; Sohaila Sanie Shekib; Mohammed Hashim Rayek, Mohammed Wali Shairzay; Abdul Hadi Rakin; and M. Qasem Kadir SAE eNewsletter Editorial Board: Editor -in -Chief: Ghulam Mujtaba, M.S, CE, P.E., CPM E-Mail: [email protected]; Editorial Board Members: A. Manan Khalid, M.S., P.E.,LEED AP E-Mail: [email protected] and A. Wahed Hassani, Ph.D.,P.E. Email: [email protected] Subscribe/Unsubscribe: The subscription to the SAE eNewsletter is free. If you are not receiving the SAE eNewsletter directly and would like to subscribe, please send a note to: [email protected] with the subject "Subscribe: SAE eNewsletter”. To unsubscribe, send a note with the subject "Unsubscribe: SAE eNewsletter". Disclaimer: The author, reporter, or agency of each publication, project, news, and products is included in this newsletter. Additional contact information of the authors and their agencies are available with the Editorial Board of the newsletter and may be provided upon request. The Editorial Board of the Society of Afghan Engineers, Executive Committee, Board of Directors, or any of its members is not liable for the accuracy or contents of the information. The reports and information are included as provided by the authors and agencies without any changes in the substance of the documents. The information about the agency products or services is not the SAE endorsement. 22 | P a g e A QUARTERLY UPDATE FROM THE SOCIETY OF AFGHAN ENGINEERS THE SOCIETY OF AFGHAN ENGINEERS P. O. Box 11520 BURKE, Virginia 22009-1520 Telephone: 909-868-4212 Email: [email protected] MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION/RENEWAL UPDATES Name: ______ Address: ______ ______ Phone: Home: ______Office: ______ Email: ______ The active members of the Society of Afghan Engineers (SAE): Please mark (x) the appropriate box related to your address and other contact information. Yes, the above is a change in address or contact information. No, the above address is the same as it is listed on the SAE website The SAE is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization. Amount of Annual 2011 Membership: $60.00 Donation: : ------ Total: ------ Please send your check or money order payable to the Society of Afghan Engineers. The completed application/renewal forms may be mailed to Mr. Nagib Sayed, SAE Treasure at P.O. Box 11520, Burke, Virginia 22009- 1520 Suggestion and comments:______ 23 | P a g e