Sidikatu Aliyu, a 2023 iLevate Tertiary Institution Scholarship recipient, has been making strides in the fields of remote sensing and environmental management and sustainability upon graduating in the top 1% in her faculty. Her intense dedication to impacting her environment with the knowledge and skills she has acquired over the years has remained undiminished despite having to tackle numerous obstacles along her journey. Sidikatu shares with us her undeterred path to success and plans for the future.

Hello Sidikatu. Please introduce yourself.

“My name is Sidikatu Aliyu. I am from Kogi State, Nigeria, and I am currently pursuing a Master of Technology in Geography (Remote Sensing) at the Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUT Minna). I have a Bachelor of Technology degree in Geography (Meteorology) from the same university, where I graduated with a CGPA of 4.71/5.0, placing me in the top 1% of my department and faculty. I have a strong interest in GIS and Remote Sensing Applications, Climate Change, Land Use and Land Cover Change, Human-environmental Interactions, and Urban Sustainability.”

What has been your greatest achievement so far as a student?

“One of my greatest achievements as a student was being awarded the Vice Chancellor’s Award for the Best Graduating Student in the School of Physical Sciences at FUT Minna in 2017. This recognition was a testament to my academic dedication and hard work throughout my undergraduate studies.”

What are your long-term plans for your future?

“In the long term, I aspire to make significant contributions to the field of Geography, particularly in the areas of GIS and Remote Sensing Applications, Climate Change, and Environmental Management. I aim to engage in research, policy development, and implementation of sustainable solutions to address environmental challenges. I envision myself as a mentor and educator, inspiring and guiding future generations of geographers and environmental scientists.”

What are some of the extracurricular activities that you engage in or have engaged in, and what skills have you gleaned from them?

“I have been actively involved in various extracurricular activities that have enriched my personal and professional development. For instance, as a Program Director at Scholars Lens, I have honed my leadership, strategic planning, and communication skills while overseeing program objectives and fostering a collaborative work environment.

In addition, I recently completed a climate leadership fellowship program where took some certification courses and also participated in the “adopt a school and teach climate change project”. I successfully carried out this project at the Federal University of Technology, Minna, Model Secondary School by sensitizing young secondary school students about climate change, its impacts and the possible mitigative measures to combat it.”

What is the driving force behind your academic achievements, and what would you want to be known for?

“The driving force behind my academic achievements is my passion for understanding and addressing environmental challenges. I am deeply motivated to contribute to the knowledge and understanding of GIS and Remote Sensing Applications, Climate Change, and Environmental Management. I aspire to be known for my dedication to sustainable development, my contributions to research and innovation, and my commitment to making a positive impact on the environment and society.”

How do you plan on adding value to your community using the knowledge and skills that you have garnered so far?

“With the knowledge and skills, I have acquired, I plan to add value to my community by actively engaging in environmental management and sustainability initiatives. I aim to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to develop and implement solutions that address climate change, land use and land cover change, and other environmental concerns. Through research, education, and community outreach, I intend to raise awareness, promote sustainable practices, and contribute to the overall well-being of my community.”

How has your environment aided or impeded your academic pursuits over the years?

“My environment has played a significant role in aiding my academic pursuits. The Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUT Minna), where I am currently studying, has provided a conducive learning environment with experienced faculty members. The university’s emphasis on research and practical applications has also been instrumental in shaping my academic journey. However, like any other environment, there have been challenges along the way, such as limited resources and access to specialized equipment. Nevertheless, these challenges have pushed me to be resourceful, resilient, and creative in finding alternative solutions to overcome obstacles.”

What has been your greatest obstacle on your journey to achieving your dreams, and how did you overcome it?

“One of the greatest obstacles I have faced on my journey to achieving my dreams is the lack of financial resources to fully pursue research opportunities and attend conferences and workshops. To overcome this challenge, I actively sought out scholarship opportunities and grants. I also engaged in part-time work and freelance projects to support my academic pursuits financially. Also, I tapped into online resources and networking platforms to access research materials and connect with experts in my field, thus expanding my knowledge and opportunities.”

What would you tell a younger version of yourself or any young girl who has aspirations like you did?

“I would tell a younger version of myself or any young girl with similar aspirations to dream big, believe in themselves, and never be afraid to pursue their passions. It is important to set clear goals, work hard, and remain resilient in the face of challenges. Surrounding oneself with a supportive network of mentors, peers, and role models can also provide guidance and inspiration. It is essential to embrace continuous learning, seize opportunities for growth, and always remember that gender should never limit one’s potential or aspirations. With determination, perseverance, and a strong support system, anything is possible.”

How has being an iTIS recipient aided your educational pursuit?

“Being a recipient of the iTIS (ilevate Tertiary Institution Scholarship) has played a significant role in supporting my educational pursuits, particularly in terms of attending conferences and conducting fieldwork. The financial burdens associated with these activities can often be challenging for students, but the scholarship has alleviated some of these burdens and provided me with  valuable opportunities.”

We are incredibly inspired by Sidikatu Aliyu’s grit and tenacity and look forward to seeing her imprint her name in the sands of time. Sidikatu Aliyu is well on her way to creating a global impact, and we are rooting for her!