Adetola Oguntade – MSc Construction Project Management

Adetola Oguntade, a graduate from Scotts, at the Winter 2024 graduations, P & J Live

An international student from Nigeria, qualifying with a MSc in Construction Project Management, who has ambitions to return to his homeland to make Africa ‘greener’ by building environmentally friendly buildings.

36-year-old Adetola relocated to Aberdeen from Lagos in Nigeria, motivated by ambitions to develop his career in the construction sector. He had an extensive track record, having worked as a site manager and as a trained instructor of technical drawing and technology, but wanted to go further.

After researching study overseas, Adetola discovered the Scott Sutherland School of Architecture & Built Environment, and decided RGU was top of the list.

“My passion for the profession came first and the Scott Sutherland School of Architecture & Built Environment had strong industry connections, with an outstanding international reputation.

“I was also really impressed by the MSc Construction Project Management course and the modules which included Design Management, Risk and Safety Management, BIM: Application in Design and Construction, and Project Planning and Control. I knew I’d discovered the ideal course and had a eureka moment, especially after seeing the professional accreditation from the Chartered Association Building Engineers, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and the Chartered Institute of Building”.

Relocating from Nigeria to the North East of Scotland is a decision Adetola has not regretted. He’s been overwhelmed by the welcome from the RGU community and the people of Aberdeen.

“My time at RGU has been life-changing and has helped me prepare for the next phase of my career. The modules have given me the technical know-how and industrial information required for the contemporary construction sector. I’ve also worked on several projects with classmates from diverse backgrounds which has improved my communication and teamwork abilities.

“Our course tutor, Whitney Bevan, has been fantastic. She’s helped foster group discussions and encouraged us to listen to different people’s perspectives. This has helped me gain a better understanding about global building, and the importance of culture and geography throughout the construction process and final product.

“A particular highlight has been a visiting a renovation project within Aberdeen city centre. I was amazed how the project management team from Aberdeen City Council wanted to conserve the building by paying attention to the smallest details of the original design."

Now that Adetola is finishing his time at RGU, he’s looking forward to his career ahead.

“I plan to use my academic knowledge and practical experience to secure a role in the construction or project management sector to hone my project management abilities. My long-term goal is to establish environmentally friendly buildings and real estate companies in Africa. By supporting the growth of local talent, I hope to discover ways to combine culture and heritage with practicality so as to make Africa 'greener'.

“I’m feeling prepared for my career ahead. I have a solid foundation in project planning, risk management, and sustainability practices and would recommend the Construction Project Management course at the Scott Sutherland School to anyone.”