Ten in a row for RGU

For the tenth year in a row, an engineering graduate from RGU has won the annual Energy Institute (EI) competition.

The EI’s Aberdeen branch organised an event that brought together industry and academia to showcase the latest research and ideas from MSc energy students and facilitate networking with potential employers.

A judging panel of senior representatives and industry figures was impressed by the high quality of student projects and presentations at the event.  RGU's participation in the competition aligns with the university's strategic goals related to teaching, learning, student experience, economic, social, cultural development, and environmental sustainability.

This year marks the tenth consecutive year that RGU has won the first prize, surpassing strong competition from the University of Aberdeen. This year marks the 10th consecutive year that RGU has won the first prize,  surpassing strong competition from the University of Aberdeen. The top prize of £250 went to Ibrahim Garba, the second prize of £150 was awarded to Mohammad Safarkhan Moazeni, and the fourth prize of £100 was picked up by Sopefoluwa Adeleye. All three are graduates from MSc Oil and Gas Engineering.

Meanwhile, Dr Mohamed Amish, Oil and Gas Engineering and Drilling and Well Engineering Courses Leader, at  RGU’s School of Computing, Engineering, and Technology was presented with a certificate by EI to mark 10 years of RGU success in the competition. 

He said: “This accomplishment underscores RGU's commitment to nurturing future leaders in innovation, sustainability, and entrepreneurship through a holistic educational approach that transcends traditional academic boundaries.

“As an academic at RGU, I am honoured to have been involved in and leading this prestigious competition for the past decade. The consistent success of RGU students in the Energy Institute's competitions reflects their exceptional skills, employability, and RGU's dedication to providing top-notch sustainable energy engineering education.

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations and present this esteemed recognition to our Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Steve Olivier, for fostering an environment that promotes excellence in teaching and learning, leading to the creation of cutting-edge courses in emerging industries. I also acknowledge the contributions of our students, industry partners, and senior executive team, including Lynn Kilbride, Nick Fyfe, Veronica Strachan, and Donella Beaton, for their invaluable strategic support and enduring impact.

“A special thanks to John Isaacs, Dean of the School of Computing, Engineering, and Technology, and the entire RGU community for their unwavering support and enthusiasm throughout the student journey, from application to alumni.”

Rebecca Allison, Chair of the local EI branch who hosted the evening at the Net Zero Technology Centre said: “Our city’s two world-renowned universities bring to the marketplace some exceptionally talented students with innovative ideas, and it is extremely encouraging to see such in-depth, thoughtful and impactful research coming from the next generation of energy sector practitioners and leaders.”

Lead judge and sponsor, Innes Auchterlonie, CEO of Imrandd added:  “We are proud to celebrate the exceptional research and innovative thinking demonstrated by this year’s student finalists. The judges were very impressed by their ability to tackle complex industry challenges with creativity and critical thinking.”

The EI and the industry panel acknowledged RGU's consistent success in winning the top prize over the past decade and praised my personal commitment, achievements, and support for these award-winning students.  The industry panel commended RGU's dedication to preparing students for future challenges and opportunities, aiming to cultivate adaptable, innovative, and entrepreneurial leaders who can shape the future beyond traditional academic and job roles. 

Main image: Left to right: Prize winner Ibrahim Garba, Mohamed Amish, Senior Lecturer Mohammad Safarkhan Moazeni, runner-up and Sopefoluwa Adeleye, who was fourth.