Page 47 - NEW ENERGIES Beyond Data

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Aisha Abbagana
Aisha
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Computer Engeneering S tudent , University of Maiduguri
Computer Engeneering Student, University of Maiduguri
Maiduguri, Borno State

My name Aisha Abbagana, and I recently graduated from the Computer Engineering department in the
University of Maiduguri. You know, they say engineering is mostly a course for guys, but I have always wanted
to prefix “engineer” before my name, so I decided to do something that opposes what people say, not in the in
the negative way, but in a positive way. Besides, I believe the future is digital.

Prior to this STEM program, I had no idea what I was going to do after school, but then we heard that students
were going to be trained on renewable energy. 50 female students were shortlisted from our university and

interviewed, but only 20 got to be in the program. I was one of the 20 selected STEM students, and being
part of this training program, has opened my eyes to what I can do, not just for myself but for my family and
my community. My participation in the program has made me look at things differently and it has changed
my decision and outlook in life. I am now very passionate about investing and being part of the new energy
sector, to give back to my community, my country, and the world at large.

Being the first female engineer in my family has made me very proud. It has made my mom happy and made
me achieve my dream of making my father very proud. Even though he is not here anymore, I want to keep
his name alive, through my accomplishments.

My dreams for the future are bright. I plan on giving back to my community by establishing mini grids in the
underserved and unrecognized areas, and making a positive impact in the field of renewable energy.

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