Message from Africa Regional Director
October 2023
Dear Friends,
I have four highlights for you from the last few weeks:
Special Recognition of Five Student Chapters
This year’s student chapter awards were particularly difficult because so many of our 400 chapters upped their game! I want to use this opportunity to recognize FIVE Student chapters who, although they did not win the prestigious global Presidential award, deserve a spotlight based on something innovative, or noteworthy they did or due to their great progress. These Student Chapters are:
- Bayero University: Recognized for the numerous community service efforts, Energy4Me events and the school clean up they did which was especially admirable.
- Federal University of Technology Owerri: Recognized for the technical paper writing series in collaboration with other student chapters was especially commendable.
- Petroleum Training Institute: Recognized for their membership program efforts. The "Getting the Best from SPE Through Networking" panel session in collaboration with the student chapter liaison they held was especially noteworthy.
- University of Ibadan: Recognized for the professional program efforts. The 2023 Industry Week program, themed The Role of Digital Technologies in Driving Sustainability and Efficiency in the Petroleum Industry, was especially innovative.
- University of Mines and Technology: Recognized for their operational efforts. The way they set goals, drove towards achieving them, and then set future goals was pragmatic and admirable.
Congratulations to the Outstanding Student Chapters that won the Presidential Awards announced earlier this year, along with those that won the Student Chapter Excellence Awards and now, the Regional Student Chapter Recognition Winners! I am eagerly looking forward to the amazing things you all will accomplish in the year ahead. Keep the flag flying!
Nominations for the 2024 SPE Regional and International Awards are Now Open
The SPE award program is known for its prestige and can significantly boost a recipient’s career. Nominate an outstanding SPE member to potentially elevate their professional trajectory and make a lasting impact on their career. Nomination timelines are as follows:
- 21 September | Nominations Open
- 15 February | International Nominations Close
- 25 February | CV/Resume or LinkedIn Profile & Supporting Letter(s) Due - International
- 1 March | Regional Nominations Close
- 10 March | CV/Resume or LinkedIn Profile & Supporting Letter(s) Due - Regional
Call For Volunteers
The Data Science and Engineering Analytics Technical Section (DSEATS) is looking for volunteers from the Africa Region to join the ranks of SPE members who have a passion for the technological advancements that are reshaping industries and driving innovation at an unprecedented pace. If you are interested in joining, please send an email of self-nomination to Sections@spe.org.
Highlights and Pictures from the World Petroleum Congress, Calgary, Alberta Canada
I had the privilege of attending The World Petroleum Conference in Calgary which brought together industry leaders, experts, and policymakers to discuss the future of the global petroleum sector. Here are the key takeaways from this influential event:
- Sustainable Energy Transition: A predominant theme was the industry's commitment to sustainable energy. Participants discussed the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, invest in clean technologies, and transition towards a low-carbon future.
- Technological Advancements: Cutting-edge technologies like advanced drilling techniques, digitalization, and automation are revolutionizing the industry. These innovations promise to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve safety.
- Resilience Amidst Challenges: The petroleum industry faces numerous challenges, including market volatility, geopolitical tensions, and environmental concerns. Participants emphasized the importance of building resilience and diversifying energy sources.
- Investment in Research: Research and development efforts are critical for the industry's future. Attendees discussed the need for continued investment in exploring new reserves, improving extraction methods, and developing cleaner energy alternatives.
- Global Collaboration: Collaboration among countries, companies, and organizations is essential to address common challenges. Participants recognized the importance of working together to achieve sustainable energy goals.
- Energy Transition Policies: Government policies play a crucial role in shaping the industry's trajectory. Discussions centered around the importance of clear and consistent energy policies to provide a stable business environment.
- The Role of Renewables: The integration of renewable energy sources into the petroleum sector is gaining momentum. Experts explored how renewables can complement traditional energy sources and contribute to decarbonization efforts.
- Climate Accountability: Attendees emphasized the industry's accountability in mitigating climate change. Companies are increasingly setting ambitious carbon reduction targets and investing in carbon capture and storage technologies.
- Geopolitical Dynamics: The conference addressed the impact of geopolitical tensions on energy markets. Participants highlighted the need for diversifying energy sources to reduce dependence on politically unstable regions.
- Responsible Resource Management: Sustainability and responsible resource management are integral to the industry's future. Discussions revolved around minimizing environmental impact, protecting ecosystems, and engaging with local communities.
I look forward to attending future events that prove to be a treasure trove of learning and networking. Here are a few pictures from the event:
Until next time, I leave you with my warmest regards.
Oghogho Effiom
SPE Regional Director—Africa
Follow me on Instagram - @SPEAFRICAARD
Connect with me on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/oghogho-effiom/