Dr. Oliver Terna Iorhemen — A Proud Benue scholar transforming Waste into Wealth in Canada
From the fertile lands of Benue State, Nigeria, to the global stage of innovation and research, Dr. Oliver Terna Iorhemen stands as a shining example of excellence, resilience, and purpose.
After completing his primary school, he proceeded to St. Andrew’s Secondary School, Adikpo, Benue State (SASA), where he laid a strong academic foundation marked by brilliance and discipline. He later gained admission at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Water Resources and Environmental Engineering. His quest for knowledge took him to the University of Leeds, UK, where he obtained a Master’s degree in Environmental Engineering and Project Management, and later to the University of Calgary, Canada, where he achieved a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering (Environmental Engineering specialization).
Currently based in Canada, he serves as an Assistant Professor of Environmental Engineering at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC), where he leads cutting-edge research on wastewater treatment, resource recovery, and environmental sustainability — transforming waste into wealth and driving global change.
His journey is decorated with remarkable achievements and global recognition. He is a recipient of the NSERC Postdoctoral Fellowship (2019) and the UNBC Excellence in Teaching Award (2023). He also received the Teaching Achievement Award from the Schulich School of Engineering, University of Calgary, and several prestigious scholarships including the Eyes High International Doctoral Scholarship, Silver Anniversary Graduate Fellowship, and the Alberta Graduate Citizenship Award.
Dr. Iorhemen has also secured a Discovery Grant from NSERC to extract high-value products from wastewater — turning pollution into opportunity. His international collaborations extend to countries like Brazil, focusing on resource recovery and sustainable wastewater management. His research publications have earned global recognition, including a Best Paper Award (2022) for his groundbreaking work on aerobic granular sludge technology, a major advancement in modern wastewater treatment.
Through hard work, focus, and passion, Dr. Oliver Terna Iorhemen continues to make Benue, Nigeria, and Africa proud on the world stage, proving that brilliance truly knows no boundaries.
News of his achievements have not gone unnoticed back home. Everyone from Benue to Abuja are proud of Dr. Iorhemen on his remarkable achievements, from classmates recalling their days at St. Andrew’s Secondary School, Adikpo (SASA) and Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, to family members celebrating his success as a reflection of hard work and integrity. Their words echo the collective pride of a people inspired by his journey.
Through hard work, focus, and passion, he’s shown that no dream is too distant when determination meets opportunity.
To the Nigerian youth, let Dr. Oliver’s story reminds you that greatness is achievable through education, focus, and consistency. No matter where you start, determination can take you anywhere in the world.
Let’s celebrate this exceptional Benue-born scholar, a beacon of inspiration to the youth and a true ambassador of excellence.
Source: Facebook
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