Nigerian Students Produces Biodiesel From Cassava As Sustainable Option

Students from Nigerian Tulip International Colleges in Abuja have produced fuel from cassava and palm wine as sustainable option for petrol as part of the projects exhibited at the just concluded 5th Annual Science and Arts Fair event of the school.

The project, which was exhibited alongside over 60 novel projects by the students, was greatly commended for its potential in solving the issues of pollution based on the fact that excellent and complete combustion can be achieved through it. To a great extent, it reduces the emission of carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide pollution into the environment.

Speaking on the impact such novel project can have on the Nigerian economy, the principal of Abuja Boys’ section, Mr Muazu Omeji, said, “one of the most cultivated farm produce in Nigeria is cassava and if properly harnessed, can contribute in no small measure to the nation’s economy in terms of production and usage both at domestic and industrial levels”.

Muazu further reemphasised the school’s commitment creating a right environment that fosters learning and expressed the determination of the school to continuously breed well rounded citizens who will contribute their quota to the overall growth and development of Nigeria, the African continent and the world at large.

The fair had interesting exhibition stands amongst which were; making of biodiesel from cassava, Automatic Street Light Control, Fight of Flight Response (dissection of a frog), Magic Square, Jug of Mysteries, DNA Extraction, Line Follower Platform among others.

The project was greatly welcomed for its potential to drastically reduce carbon dioxide emission thereby bringing about reduction of greenhouse effect and global warming. It was highly commended because biofuel is cheap and economical to harness as it is a good renewable source of energy which creates an effective alternative for petroleum thereby, reducing over dependence on petroleum and ultimately creating new jobs for the populace since it can be made from varieties of starch based food stuffs.

Sustainability has become a global clamour in the quest to protect the ecosystem, hence the need for biofuel. This is also a valid option to petrol as Nigeria and the rest of the world seeks a sustainable option to over reliance on crude oil.

The fair which was visited by 544 pupils and students from 40 schools within Abuja was graced by dignitaries including Prof Nurethin, vice chancellor of Nile University, Dr Adeola Ebenezer, manager, National Teachers’ Institute, Abuja, Mallam Salihu Yahaya, Ag director, Department of Quality Assurance, Abuja, Arthur Onyeachu, director, General Services, Federal Ministry of Education, and distinguished parent just to mention a few.

source: Leadership