The Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology, Department of Energy, Mineral, and Petroleum Studies, took part in the International Petroleum Technology Conference (IPTC). IPTC hosted its annual Education Week from 9th to 14th February 2024 in Dhahran, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), providing the selected 100 (out of 500 applicants) undergraduate students with invaluable insights into the petroleum industry.
Through the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) MUST Student Chapter, the Faculty Advisor nominated four (04) students for the IPTC 2024 Education Week, adhering to stringent nomination criteria. Fosca Tumuhaise, Parvin Kyohirwe, Johnbaptist Eshana Kauta, and Victor Mugambe. Following the application process, three students were selected to represent the University at the IPTC Education Week under the Young Members Activities Category. The nominated students from MUST included: Fosca Tumuhaise, Parvin Kyohirwe, and Victor Mugambe. These traveled to KSA on the 9th of February 2024.
According to Ms. Parvin Kyohirwe, the IPTC wasn’t just about technology. It was about resilience, about adapting to a changing world. Ms.Fosca Tumuhaise said it was about honing communication skills, networking, and embracing diversity. While Victor said they discovered the power of teamwork and the necessity of digital literacy in an ever-evolving landscape.The students learned the importance of lifelong learning, of seizing every opportunity for growth.
A Week of Wonder:
Days were filled with stimulating discussions on Carbon Capture and the Circular Carbon Economy, the future of hydrogen technologies, and the challenges that lay ahead. Evenings brought the warmth of cultural exchange at the Gala, a testament to the vibrancy of the global community. The SLB Field Development Group challenge, a test of knowledge and problem-solving, pushed their boundaries and ignited their competitive spirit.
Awards and Recognition:
Uganda celebrated remarkable success, with all MUST delegates receiving prestigious awards:
- Parvin Kyohairwe – Filed Development Challenge by SLB Award : 2nd place
- Fosca Tumuhaise – Best Presenter Award
- Victor Mugambe – Rising star Award
As Delegates that represented Mbarara University of Science and Technology, we would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the organizing committee at IPTC, sponsoring organizations, SPE International, SPE Uganda Section, SPE MUST Student Chapter, Aramco, SLB, and Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Faculty Administrative Staff and Members, for their invaluable support and guidance throughout the IPTC 2024 Education Week. Special thanks to the Faculty Advisor, SPE MUST Chapter, Mr. Patrick Kabanda, for nominating us for this transformative opportunity.
This was not just a trip; it was a transformation. It was the story of eager hearts journeying to the kingdom, returning as future leaders, forever marked by the spirit of the IPTC Education Week.
Succeed we Must