This year’s event was in partnership with the Nigeria Institution of Mechanical Engineers (NIMechE). Eight universities were invited to participate in the competition, with five taking up the invitation:
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU) Awka, the host university
- Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU)
- IMO State University (IMSU), Owerri, Uli
- Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), Enugu
- University of Agriculture (UNIAGRIC), Makurdi.
The competition, which attracted an audience of about 70, took place at the CHISCO Hall, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka - Anambra State, Nigeria.
The competition, which attracted an audience of about 70, took place at the CHISCO Hall, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka - Anambra State, Nigeria.The judging panel for the vent were Engr. A.C. Ifejika, Engr. Umeh Azubuike and Chief Judge Mrs. Celina Enukoha.
Also attending the event were:Engr. Ifeanyichukwu U. Onyenanu (Young Members Vice Representative, Middle East & Africa), Engr. Cyprain Azubike Umeh (NIMechE Awka Chapter Chairman and representative of NIMechE National Chairman), Engr. Ikechukwu G. Okoli, MD/CEO Gentlelinks Enterprises), Engr. A.C Ifejika, Head of Departmen, Mechanical Engineering, NAU, Engr. Echezona I. Ekengwu, Engr. Mrs. Nneka J. Ogbuagu, Engr. Daniel Isiohia, Nneoma Ukaegbu (secretary of the event), and Ifunanya M. Mobi (PRO).
Chairman of the event, Engr. Ikechukwu Okoli, opened proceedings followed by a welcome note from the host, Engr. A.C Ifejika, Head of Department, Mechanical Engineering NAU.
An address on behalf of the IMechE, Nigeria YM section was read by the Nigeria YM panel Chair, Ifeanyichukwu Onyenanu followed by the keynote address by the national chair, Engr. Dr. Robinson Ejilah of the Nigeria institution of Mechanical Engineers (NIMechE) which was read by his representative. Finally,the rules and guidelines of the competition were clearly spelt out by the Chief Judge which signalled the start of the competition.
Chukwudi Christian Chigozie, Imo State University, presented “The sustainability towards an indigenous portable water purification and treatment system”. Displaying a commendable level of communicative competence and knowledge base of the subject matter.
<>Ekweozoh Michael Chukwuma, representing Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Anambra, gave his presentation “Atmospheric Water Generator (AWG)”. Displaying a high level of energy and skill, he engaged an informed audience throughout. He inspired his audience with the richness and innovation in his work.
Next up was the group representing University of Agriculture, Makurdi lead by Igoche John Eigege with their presentation entitled “Extraction and purification of water using a locally made vertical axis and turbine (VAWT) and a sand bed with activated charcoal”.
This was followed by the presentation made by Henry Adiekwe,(representing Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, the host university, entitled “Ingenuity for the future drinkable water crisis”. The final presentation was given by the group representing Enugu State University, lead by Emeka Nwodo with their presentation entitled “Low accessibility of freshwater; its availability and possible solution (solar still)”.
With the presentations concluded, the judges were left with a challenging task of compiling marks and producing the highest scorers. After much deliberations and concessions, the panel reached a consensus. The Chief Judge, Mrs. Celina Enukoha gave the detail of the contestants’ marks and the eventual winners:
- IMSU – 71%,
- COOU - 70.3%
- ESUT - 65%
- NAU – 68%
- UNIAGRIC - 63.1%.
In summary, the SOfE Competition was indeed keenly competed. Having similar presentations to deliver and the efforts by the various contestants to ensure clarity and distinctiveness has presented this competition as one worthy of commendation. With the outcome of the competition, it is hoped that engineering students will not relent in their technical pursuit to generate more innovative methods to harness and advance the engineering profession and to achieve the goal of proffering solutions through locally sourced materials.
Thumbs up to our five participants for their efforts in putting their presentations together and for taking part in this competition. Much kudos to our judges and special guests for your support and taking the time out to be part of this event.
Our hearty congratulation goes to Chigozie and Michael, winners of the fourth Nigeria Heat.