My name is Ikafia, Ubong Sam. I completed my undergraduate studies in Electrical/Electronics Engineering from University of Uyo, Uyo in August 2015, with a CGPA of 4.19/5.0 (Second class honour degree – B.Eng.). During my undergraduate education, I was hardworking, studious, determined and the grace of God made me outstanding. Besides graduating as the second best student of the department, I held the position of a class representative for two academy sessions. I also led a project group of six members to a huge success on the Design, Simulation, Implementation and Evaluation of 1kVA Online Solar power system. As an extra-curriculum activity, I am a talented football player. I am from a God fearing family of three and my parents are both retired civil servants. I previously held three internship positions with Afam Power Plc, Afam VI Combined Cycle Power Plant with Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited. I learnt the operation and maintenance of the power plants and maintenance Planning for oil and gas sector. Recently, I have completed my NSYC program with Ministry of Public Utilities and Water resources, Umuahia as an Electrical graduate engineer with a complete research paper on Wind Energy Potential in Akwa Ibom state, Nigeria that compares the energy potential of the plain and the coastal region of the state and how this can be harnessed to improve the energy situation of my country. As my career goals, I want to be an expert in Power System and Automation, working in the power or oil and gas sector, so that I can contribute immensely to the development of Nigeria and the world at large on my return. In Nigeria, most Instrument and control engineers are expatriates and there are a lot of unresolved issues in Nigeria’s control system. Finding solutions to these issues that inhibits the development of my country especially in the power sector in my passion. I will become a lecturer in a university in the later path of my career, to impart my knowledge and working experience in my country. I am greatly motivated by my career goals. This program will be a progression in my career path. A master’s degree in Power System and Automation will help me achieve these goals. In contribution to development of my country, we have designed an off-grid solar PV system for a rural community in southern Nigeria. This project is awaiting sponsorship as this community of over a thousand residents have no access to electricity from the national grid. I also have publication and research papers on the wind and solar energy as an alternative means of generating electricity to balance the increasing demand of electricity in my country. The aim of the research is find the real solution to Nigeria’s energy problem. I still have an ongoing research on power plant management software. Studying the course at Liaoning University of Technology, China, I will have the necessary exposure and training to accomplish my career goals. I will also have a privilege of meeting new colleagues, building a professional network for greater tomorrow. I will have the chance to develop my football skills in the school team as I am a talented player. As an international student, I prefer to study abroad as I will have more exposure to the practical aspect and application of my course work. It will also give me a competitive career advantage for years to come. This will make me more relevant in this profession on my return. In view of the above, I sincerely hope that my application will receive a favourable consideration as I am an holder of Petroleum Trust Development Fund (PTDF) scholarship here in Nigeria. Thank you for your assistance with this application. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Yours Sincerely, Ubong Ikafia