Chijioke Agupugo Triumphs at 12th Annual 3 Minute Thesis Competition In a remarkable display of ingenuity and academic prowess, Chijioke Agupugo, a Nigerian in United States of America (diaspora), has brought immense pride to his home country by winning the 12th annual 3 Minute Thesis (3MT) competition of Appalachian State University’s Cratis D. Williams School of Graduate Studies, North Carolina.
Agupugo, who is currently a student of Technology, captivated the judges and audience alike with his compelling presentation titled “Design of Smart Renewable Energy Microgrid for Nigerian Airforce Base Kaduna.” The 3MT competition was started at the University of Queensland in Australia in 2008 and has since been adopted at universities worldwide. The 3MT competition was held on Friday, November 3, 2023 in North Carolina, USA. A total of 14 students representing the Beaver College of Health Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, College of Fine and Applied Arts, and Walker College of Business participated.
A total of three judges presided over the competition. The judges the competition were led by Dr. Harvey Durham, Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor Emeritus and Professor Emeritus of Mathematics at Appalachian State University. The 3MT competition, known for its intense challenge of condensing complex research into a brief and engaging presentation, saw Agupugo rise above fierce competition.
Agupopo received first place, Rose received second place, and Cybulski received the People’s Choice Award, voted by the event’s attendees. All winners received cash awards to support travel and research. His winning project, supervised by Dr. Marie Hoepfl, a professor in the Department of Sustainable Technology and the Built Environment, addresses a critical issue faced by Nigeria: the need for reliable and sustainable energy solutions.
Agupugo’s project focuses on the design of a smart renewable energy microgrid tailored for the Nigerian Airforce Base in Kaduna. This innovative solution promises to revolutionize the energy landscape of the base, ensuring a consistent and sustainable power supply. By leveraging renewable energy sources, Agupugo’s microgrid design not only addresses the chronic power shortages but also aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainability.
Dr. Marie Hoepfl, who has been instrumental in guiding Agupugo’s research, praised his dedication and innovative approach. “Chijioke’s work exemplifies the kind of forward-thinking solutions that are essential for addressing today’s energy challenges. His commitment to making a difference in Nigeria is truly commendable,” she remarked. Agupugo’s achievement at the 3MT competition is a testament to the talent and determination of Nigerians in the diaspora.
His success story serves as an inspiration to many, showcasing how Nigerian scholars and professionals abroad are making significant contributions to global knowledge and bringing honor to their homeland. The smart microgrid project is not just a theoretical exercise; it holds real potential for practical application and impact. By providing a reliable power solution for the Nigerian Airforce Base in Kaduna, Agupugo’s design could serve as a model for other military and civilian installations across the country, fostering greater energy independence and security.
As Agupugo continues to push the boundaries of renewable energy technology, his work highlights the importance of supporting and investing in the talents of Nigerians abroad. His victory at the 3MT competition underscores the critical role that the diaspora plays in driving innovation and development, both in Nigeria and on the global stage. Chijioke Agupugo’s success is a beacon of hope and a source of pride for Nigeria.
His achievements remind us all of the incredible potential that lies within the Nigerian community, both at home and abroad. As we celebrate his triumph, we also look forward to the continued contributions of Nigerians in the diaspora who are making a profound impact in various fields and bringing positive change to the world.