My visit to the United Kingdom (UK) was a transformative experience that provided valuable intellectual stimulation for my career. During my time in the UK, I had the opportunity to engage in various research activities and attend workshops and conferences that broadened my knowledge and facilitated networking with experts in my field. One of the highlights was visiting the Rothamsted Research Centre in Harpenden, Luton, where I collected raw materials for my research project. I also visited Queens University Belfast to analyse samples and work on collaborative research. Participating in the Maximising Your Impact: Training for Development workshop at Cumberland Lodge, organized by the Commonwealth Scholarships Commission (CSC), was a privilege. The workshop focused on enhancing skills to drive social change and achieve sustainable development goals.
Attending parliamentary sessions and banquet hall events in London allowed me to engage in discussions with influential policymakers and action-makers. These interactions allowed me to understand better the policy landscape and its impact on research and development.
One of the highlights of my trip was the chance to attend and win the cash prize in the Henry Royce Research Sandpit Challenge at the Royce Hub Building at the University of Manchester. The event was organized by the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) and Advance materials research and Innovations (AMRI), UK and focused on finding solutions to grand challenges in research while promoting knowledge-sharing and collaboration. Furthermore, I had the opportunity to present my research work at the 2022 International Fertiliser Society Anniversary Conference, which combined agronomic and technical presentations at Robinson College, Cambridge, and the University of Cambridge. I was thrilled to share my insights with fellow researchers and experts in the field. These events provided valuable opportunities to connect with other researchers, exchange ideas, and showcase my research work. I also had the honour of presenting my research work at the Croptec22 show – an agricultural innovation event organized by Jonas Technology and held in Peterborough, UK, aimed at farmers. I was invited to speak about my research work and contribute to the event discussions. Lastly, I was privileged to be a panellist in the Interchange23: Clean Energy, Air, and Oceans Annual Commonwealth Alumni and Scholar Conference 2023, a virtual conference held on behalf of the Commonwealth Scholarships Commission and British Council. The conference was a networking opportunity for Commonwealth scholars and alums, and I participated in a roundtable panel discussion on Climate Change – Clean Air.
Additionally, I participated in course modules at the university, such as "Soil Systems", taught by the president of the British Soil Science Society (BSSS), Dr Jack Hannam, and Dr Ruben Sakrabani, a Soil Chemist from Cranfield University. The classes and lectures were practical and valuable to attend. The facilities, such as Wolfson Field Laboratory and Pink Building, funded by the government for research work, impressed me.
Throughout my journey, I used advanced research equipment and techniques, enabling me to conduct high-quality research and publish my findings in an international publisher, Springer Nature – Silicon Journal (https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12633-023-02396-5). The opportunity to publish in such a prestigious journal was a significant accomplishment that motivated me to continue pursuing academic excellence.
Beyond academia, my trip to the UK allowed me to gain insight into social and cultural aspects,
develop soft skills, and expand my social network. Group activities and discussions during workshops and modules enhanced my problem-solving and collaboration skills. For my proposed research at Cranfield University, titled " evaluating soil emissions using biomass- derived amorphous silica, " By utilizing agricultural residues, such as wheat straw, and extracting amorphous silica, I intend to evaluate trace emissions from soil and develop management strategies for reducing carbon dioxide and methane emissions.
In conclusion, my visit to the UK was a remarkable experience that provided valuable research opportunities, academic growth, cultural understanding, and networking possibilities. I am grateful for the support and knowledge I gained, and I look forward to further contributing to my field and positively impacting global sustainability efforts.