Our testimonials: Ngosa
Our testimonials: Ngosa
Meet Ngosa from Zambia
Student of MSc Energy Engineering
"The cultural exposure, diversity, and experience provided by Padua University are priceless, making it an excellent choice for any student"
About myself
Hello, I'm Ngosa Bwalya, an international student pursuing a master's degree in Energy and Nuclear Engineering at the University of Padua. I'm currently in my second year of studies and I'm a recipient of the MAECI grant provided by the Italian Ministry of International Cooperation.
My passion lies in promoting sustainable development through clean and affordable energy access. My professional goal is to be a designer and technical consultant for renewable energy systems, and work on electrification programs in rural areas.
Additionally, I volunteer as technical support with LEDS for Africa, a student-led project that promotes sustainable access to renewable energy in developing countries. We are currently conducting a solar energy rural electrification project in Ponte Cabral, Guinea Bissau.
Aside from my academic pursuits, I'm also a musician and travel video creator. Fortunately, being at UNIPD has given me the opportunity to explore and develop these talents and interests of mine through music concerts, street performances, and visiting interesting historical places and cities near Padua.
What did you like the most about your programme? Why would you suggest it to other students?
My passion for clean energy and sustainable development led me to pursue a Master's degree in Energy and Nuclear Engineering. This specialized program has provided me with an in-depth understanding of the technical and practical aspects of energy production, transmission, and utilization. Through this program, I have learned about the fundamental principles of energy production and the physics of nuclear reactors, as well as the latest technologies and techniques used in the field. Additionally, I have gained knowledge about the safety and environmental issues associated with energy production.
One of the most significant benefits of pursuing this Master's degree is the vast potential for career advancement. This programme has positioned me to pursue a wide range of careers in industries such as nuclear power generation, renewable energy, manufacturing industries and traditional power generation plants. I also have access to numerous internship and employment opportunities in research and development, consulting, and policy-making in government agencies.
I highly recommend Padua University to anyone interested in pursuing a career in fields related to energy, sustainability and technology. This prestigious learning institution has a reputation for providing high-quality education. The programme has received also the EUR-ACE accreditation, making it internationally recognized, facilitating both academic and professional mobility. Additionally, the university has a rich cultural heritage of more then 800 years.
The cultural exposure, diversity, and experience provided by Padua University are priceless, making it an excellent choice for any student.
Lab, field trips, firm visits, and so on, have you had the chance to do any during your degree programme? Did you do any extracurricular activities and how have you found them?
The programme at UNIPD offers an exceptional hands-on experience and prioritizes academia-industry relationships. Through my academic journey, I have had the privilege of conducting various lab experiments and engaging with multiple technical and engineering companies in the Padua vicinity. This exposure has been instrumental in enabling me to make informed decisions about my specialization areas, thesis topic, and overall career goals.
For instance, in the Solar Energy Measurements Laboratory, I collaborated with a team of six students to measure solar irradiation components using various measurement instruments and data acquisition systems. We evaluated solar thermal collector efficiencies and characterized PV solar modules. Additionally, I participated in other laboratories, including one dedicated to analyzing and dimensioning heat transfer in different types of heat exchangers, a crucial skill for engineers in many industrial applications. My studies also exposed me to several commercial engineering software for simulations and modeling, which I found particularly fascinating.
I have also had the privilege of participating in technical visits to various sites. For example, I visited a biomass plant in Primiero Trento, north of Italy, operated by the ACSM group. This facility provides electricity and domestic hot water to the local community using as fuel the waste tree biomass uprooted during a heavy storm that devastated the nearby forest. More recently, I visited Aermec, a leading Italian company specializing in the design and production of air conditioning and air handling systems. These visits have offered me practical exposure to the machinery and engineering I study in class and, more importantly, have allowed me to network with industry professionals.
During my time at UNIPD, I have had the opportunity to attend various extracurricular events such as conferences, seminars, and activities. Recently, by virtue of being a MAECI grantee, I attended the Social Enterprise Open Camp focused on technological innovation for social change through entrepreneurship. The event took place in the beautiful southern cities of Bari and Matera, and it was a very informative and fulfilling experience for me.
I have also participated in two exchange programs - one with the Justus Liebeg University Giessen in Germany, which focused on the Renewable Energy Transition, and one with the University of Venice, which focused on interpersonal communication, cultural diversity, and discrimination.
What do you like most about the City of Padua and why? What fun things have you experienced since being here?
There are myriad reasons to fall in love with the charming city of Padua. Personally, I am enamored by its rich history and vibrant culture. Padua's roots trace back to ancient Roman times, and the city is home to several impressive historical and cultural landmarks. For instance, the renowned Scrovegni Chapel, the Basilica di Sant'Antonio, and the Palazzo della Ragione are all located here. As someone studying at the University of Padova, one of Europe's oldest universities, the fact that Galileo Galilei once taught here is a significant source of inspiration for me.
Furthermore, Padua's central location provides convenient access to many other popular destinations in the Veneto region, such as the enchanting city of Venice, the romantic city of Verona, and the stunning Dolomite Mountains. Other destinations, such as Rome with its ancient landmarks and the awe-inspiring Vatican City, are also easily reachable. As a result, Padua serves as an ideal base from which to explore the surrounding areas.
I have also been fortunate enough to visit some breath-taking destinations across Europe, including the majestic Swiss Alps in Ticino, Switzerland, and the incredible city of Paris in France. Being based in Padua has made it easy for me to plan trips to these and other places. The city has excellent transport connections and a well-organized transport system, which has made my travel experiences all the more enjoyable.
Have you found it easy to meet new people since starting university? How have you done this?
Padova is a bustling city that exudes an energetic and vibrant atmosphere, thanks to its large student population. The youthful ambiance is further accentuated by the numerous festivals and cultural events that take place throughout the year, making the city an exciting and dynamic place to be. If you want to unwind and meet new people after a long day of studying, Wednesday and Saturday evenings are particularly great times to socialize. Many students come together during these evenings to enjoy drinks and snacks, making it a perfect opportunity to make new connections.
Moreover, joining student groups and organizations is an excellent way to meet other students and forge friendships with those who share similar interests. The University of Padua offers a wide array of clubs and societies that cater to diverse interests, so you're sure to find something that aligns with your passions. Through the clubs and extra courses that I have joined, I have met several fascinating individuals who have enriched my academic and personal life.
What advice would you give to students wishing to study abroad?
Studying abroad can offer a wealth of exciting and fulfilling experiences, such as the chance to explore new cultures, acquire fresh skills, and form lasting friendships. To make the most of your study abroad experience at the University of Padua, there are several key factors to consider. Firstly, ensure you plan well ahead, researching program requirements and the application process in advance, as well as taking into account factors like visas, accommodation, and travel arrangements. Secondly, consider learning some Italian. While fluency isn't essential, even basic language skills can be incredibly beneficial when it comes to navigating life outside the university. Thirdly, immerse yourself in the local culture, from trying traditional cuisine to attending cultural events and exploring the city. Fourthly, keep an open mind and embrace new experiences, even if they're outside your comfort zone. Finally, take advantage of the academic resources available to you, including libraries, research centers, and academic advisors.
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