It was a joyful moment for Vincent Bassey Umoh (33) as he graduated for his Master’s Electrical Power Engineering (MEng). Umoh walked on the graduation stage during the Durban University of Technology (DUT) 2023 Spring graduation held at the Olive Convention Centre (OCC). This wonderful moment was celebrated during the afternoon session on 18 September 2023.
Born in the Akwa Ibom State in Nigeria, Umoh has always had a passion for Science, Technology, Mathematics and Innovation (STEMI). This became his motivation to enrol for the Master of Engineering programme. His dissertation title is ‘Hosting Capacity Assessment of Electric Vehicle Charging in Residential Low Voltage Distribution Networks’.
Umoh spoke of the challenges he had while focusing on his studies. “During my studies, I encountered some emotional challenges. Among the challenges was dealing with changes in supervision and research direction as my first supervisor left the institution. However, I turned this situation into a motivation by completely focusing on my research and found a breakthrough in just over a month of highly intensive studies,” explained Umoh.
Graduating Cum Laude was not part of his outlined plan, but he had planned to put in his best effort which eventually resulted in him obtaining Cum Laude. Umoh devoted several hours to reading dozens of research papers on topics surrounding his research. This enabled him to master the subject and get direction and results faster than he had expected. Additionally, he said his vast reading helped during the writing of his dissertation.
“It enabled me to present the logical flow of argument in a simple, coherent, and concise manner such that a non-expert in the field of study can also relate to my work. The foregoing experiences and efforts culminated in me graduating Cum Laude with three journal articles and one conference paper published within 18 months of my studies,” commented Umoh.
Graduating Cum Laude, it was an exhilarating and proud moment for Umoh as it felt like a reward for his hard work and commitment had finally paid off.
His family has always been his biggest supporters. Even though they were not able to share this precious moment with him, they were with him in spirit and they were excited about his achievement.
Umoh intends to begin his PhD studies soon and to make noteworthy contributions in the academia and the society. “Firstly, I thank God for giving me the ability and for keeping me in sound health through the duration of my studies. I also appreciate my supervisors and friends for their immense support,” said Umoh.
Umoh advised the students who are embarking in the same career path as him, to be dedicated in their studies, conduct research in areas they love and enjoy their studies.
Pictured: Vincent Umoh on his graduation day.
Sibahle Ngcobo
