Dr Ande is a Senior Lecturer and he has just been appointed Head of the Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Agriculture Makurdi Nigeria. He was accepted into the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom in 2012 for his PhD degree and completed the programme successfully in 2016.
In addition to his academic responsibilities, he has consistently dedicated himself to advocating for human rights, environmental preservation, youth development and political freedom, particularly in Benue State Nigeria. He successfully mentored and led a team of Young Benue Scientists to a Technology and Innovation EXPOSITION organized by the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology, 3rd to 7th April 2017 at FCT Abuja where Benue came overall 2nd best in the country in the JETS category.
He has many publications in the local and international spaces. And he is a member of the Institute of Chartered Chemists of Nigeria (MICCON), Member Chemical Society of Nigeria (MCSN), as well as Member of the Royal Society of Chemistry (MRSC).
Why did you choose Strathclyde for your PhD?
Strathclyde was introduced to me in 2010 by a colleague, John Ikuba Ona, who was studying a PhD degree in the Pure and Applied Chemistry Department. My motivation to go to Strathclyde was also based on the kind disposition of my prospective PhD supervisor (Dr Christine Davidson) then, who later became my substantive PhD Supervisor. She showed tremendous concern towards my application and gave me all the necessary assistance/information to make my admission successful.
What was the Strathclyde research community like?
Strathclyde's research community was like a family. Interestingly, there was a tradition where those who were new were guided by the "older’’ students which reduced over-dependence on our supervisors. There was room for freedom of expression of research ideas irrespective of who you were and where you came from.
Tell us about the support from your supervisor and the wider Strathclyde team.
My supervisor was Dr Christine Davidson. She created a productive and enjoyable learning environment which led to the successful completion of my PhD degree. She was readily available, accessible and willing to help where necessary. When life became difficult due to high exchange rates and the global economic recession, I was also supported by Strathclyde financially. The experience was indeed refreshing.
What was the best thing about Strathclyde?
No discrimination and the environment was conducive for both academic and social interactions. Strathclyde stood very tall in my estimations amongst all the universities I had attended.
How has gaining your PhD at Strathclyde helped you in your career?
As a PhD student at Strathclyde, I was exposed to high-level intellectual reasoning. I was taught diligence, hard work, patience and determination. And I have consistently held onto these values and they have made me a better researcher and person. Overall, I continue to feel confident and proud of my achievements.