OAU Alumnus Leads Groundbreaking Waste Water Treatment Initiative

Abdulbasit Abdulkareem

In an exclusive interview with OAU Kilonshele, Mr. Daniel Ogunkeye, a post-graduate student researcher and principal partner of a newly commissioned waste water treatment research hub at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), insights into the project's genesis, challenges, and future prospects were unveiled.

Mr. Ogunkeye shed light on the significance of the project, stating, "The project commissioned today is a designed waste water treatment. It's a pilot plant." He elaborated on the project's inception, emphasizing the need to address the inadequate waste management systems prevalent in older buildings on campus, juxtaposed with newer facilities utilizing septic pits. As a solution, Mr. Ogunkeye spearheaded the establishment of a sewage treatment plant, with the ETF Hall serving as a pilot project.
In addressing his role in facilitating the project, Mr. Ogunkeye remarked, "I am a Postgraduate student and the principal partner, and then I have about 10 Undergraduate students that work with me on the project." He highlighted the interdisciplinary collaboration involving students from various engineering disciplines and faculty members from relevant departments, underscoring the collective effort invested in executing the project.

Financially, Mr. Ogunkeye disclosed his substantial contribution, stating, "I shouldered finance of about 95%," despite encountering challenges stemming from inflation. The project's actual expenditure of 5.8 million naira exceeded the initial projection of 3 million naira.
Reflecting on the project's significance, Mr. Ogunkeye emphasized the imperative of proper waste management on campus, particularly with regard to newer buildings lacking adequate treatment facilities. He emphasized the pioneering nature of the sewage treatment plant, the first of its kind on campus, aimed at rectifying waste management inefficiencies.

Mr. Ogunkeye underscored the project's sustainable approach, highlighting plans to engage SIWES students in ongoing research endeavors. He elucidated on the project's continuity, stating, "It's a hub and not just a one-time project; it's a continuous project," emphasizing the long-term commitment to addressing waste management challenges.
Furthermore, Mr. Ogunkeye discussed the potential for collaboration with industry stakeholders, emphasizing the project's applicability beyond the university. He envisioned leveraging indigenous resources and innovative technologies to optimize waste treatment processes and reduce environmental impact.

In a heartfelt appeal to OAU alumni, Mr. Ogunkeye urged former students to contribute to the alma mater's development, citing the waste water treatment project as a testament to his personal commitment to giving back. He echoed the sentiment by advising current students to embrace the ethos of philanthropy towards their alma mater.

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