Pursuing an MPhil in Industrial Systems, Manufacture, and Management at Cambridge University, supported by the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, will empower me to transform innovative concepts into tangible solutions. The programme’s interdisciplinary approach, emphasis on real-world impact, and access to world-class faculty and facilities provide the perfect incubating environment for my aspirations.

Jeremiah Oloyede

Growing up in Lagos, Nigeria, infrequent electricity was my birthright. I had never confronted the status quo until I witnessed an entire production line crumble during an internship because of the same problem of unreliable electricity. Immediately, I began tinkering: If centralising electricity production failed us, how about decentralisation? 

My academic journey began at Covenant University, where I graduated as the Best Student in Mechanical Engineering. My research at the Energy and Environment Research Group focused on a comprehensive techno-economic-environmental assessment of renewable energy potential in West Africa. Utilising the Multi-Criteria Analysis for Planning Renewable Energy methodology, I evaluated the feasibility of integrating solar photovoltaics (PV), concentrated solar power, and wind energy into the West African Power Pool. Our findings highlighted that solar PV, with an astronomical installed capacity potential and a competitive Levelised Cost of Electricity, is the most viable option for decarbonising the region’s energy supply. 

Professionally, as a mechanical engineer at Space in Africa, I have been involved in projects aimed at enhancing energy access through innovative technologies. Collaborating with Maana Electric, I worked on integrating their TerraBox technology to enable rapid solar panel manufacturing in Nigeria. This project involved technical evaluations of their glass-glass frame less panels, navigating challenges in sourcing specialized solar glass locally and structuring a viable economic model for local production. Although the deal faced setbacks due to severe inflation shocks in early 2024, the experience deepened my understanding of supply chain dynamics and the critical need for localised, cost-efficient manufacturing solutions in developing markets. 

Additionally, I co-founded and currently lead a team aiming to deploy 10,000 industrial-grade weather and air quality stations powered by solar energy for a climate-resilient Africa at Climate in Africa. These stations provide accurate air quality and climate data for environmental monitoring by integrating precision sensors with robust mechanical designs. My work has extended to developing a satellite mission for a 6U CubeSat project to monitor ecological conditions across the continent, securing a significant investment. These experiences have honed my technical skills in terrestrial and space-based solar technologies, deepening my practical understanding of implementing sustainable solutions in challenging environments. 

Cambridge University’s MPhil in Industrial Systems, Manufacture, and Management offers the advanced training, intuitive mentoring, and interdisciplinary collaboration needed to bring my vision to life. The program’s focus on sustainable industrial practices, systems optimisation, and innovative manufacturing technologies aligns perfectly with my aspirations. Furthermore, the opportunity to work with the Department of Engineering and engage with research centres like the Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL) and Cambridge Global Food Security will enhance my ability to design scalable and sustainable energy solutions. 

I am particularly drawn to Professor Tim Minshall's and Professor Frank Tietze’s research. By collaborating with them and other faculty at Cambridge, I aim to contribute to advancing technologies that utilise locally available materials, lower production costs, and foster local industry growth in Nigeria. 

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship represents a commitment to global impact and shared values. It will empower me to access Cambridge’s transformative opportunities, amplify my contributions to renewable energy, and catalyse meaningful change. I aspire to lead Africa’s renewable energy revolution, positioning the continent as a model for sustainable innovation. Moreover, I aspire to contribute to the Scholarships’ goal of improving the lives of all by leveraging the knowledge and networks gained at Cambridge. Upon completion of my MPhil, I intend to lead initiatives that implement scalable energy solutions in underserved Nigerian communities, improve industrial manufacturing processes to support local economies, and mentor the next generation of African engineers and entrepreneurs dedicated to Sustainability. 

Finally, pursuing an MPhil in Industrial Systems, Manufacture, and Management at Cambridge University, supported by the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, will empower me to transform innovative concepts into tangible solutions. The programme’s interdisciplinary approach, emphasis on real-world impact, and access to world-class faculty and facilities provide the perfect incubating environment for my aspirations. I am eager to join Cambridge’s vibrant academic community. I am confident that this opportunity will equip me with the mentorship, tools, and network needed to drive sustainable development and improve lives across Africa 

2025 Gates scholars

2025 marks the 25th anniversary of Gates Cambridge, the University of Cambridge’s prestigious postgraduate scholarship programme.

The progamme, established by a generous donation from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, supports academically outstanding and socially committed postgraduate students from outside the UK who wish to study at the University of Cambridge.

The Gates Cambridge Trust has selected 95 new scholars globally for this significant anniversary year, representing a diverse range of nationalities, backgrounds, and academic disciplines.