Then and Now: 120 Bioeconomy Pioneers look at yesterday, today, inspirations and challenges

Akpa Ogechi

Then: I was just graduating from the University. I had completed a 5 year course in Electronics Electronics Engineering with a project on Power surge protector. As a fresh graduate, I looked forward to a bright future, I was prepared for anything, I was also prepared to grow my career.

Now: Today, I am a research officer in a Biotechnology Agency. Yes, Biotechnology.Far from my pure engineering which I studied. Along the line after graduation, I developed a love for biomass and renewable Energy, I knew my country had a long way to go in providing energy to its citizens. Energy from fossil fuels were becoming a threat to us in the world and equally very expensive, this led to my interest in Biofuels.  So as at today, I have masters in Bioresources Engineering, I have applied for a PhD in the same department and I am working on lignocellulose feedstock for biofuel production.

Inspirations:  Like I had earlier stated, the chance to provide better and more reliable forms of energy to my community has been my drive. With the current drop in the oil market, they is need to augument this fuel with biofuels.  Also the issue of the ozone layer depletion,  which is a global concern, I like the fact that we can now develop carbon-free energy sources for use.

Challenges:  Hmmm, for me in my country, it is the lack of proper facilities to enhance our research in bio-systems.  The bioeconomy, even though not very new, but is still a virgin land in my country.  A lot of policies are yet to be put in place. Laboratories, some built but not equipped. The technology to translate the researched to development still in the pipeline.