Massive wave of artificial intelligence challenges the engineering profession — first-class graduate Chukwuebuka Nnonyelu

Chukwuebuka Nnonyelu is a first-class graduate of computer engineering from Covenant University. He achieved a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 4.8 out of a possible 5. He speaks with Edugist on how he improved his academic standing and his project work on detection of fake currency which aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 8. Excerpts

Please share with Edugist, a little about yourself and your background

My name is Chukwuebuka Nnonyelu, a recent graduate from Covenant University. I obtained a bachelor’s degree (B. Eng) in computer engineering. I also finished with first class honours (4.8/5.0). 

Could you tell us about your experience studying computer engineering?

Studying computer engineering wasn’t a smooth journey at all. There were ups and downs, but God always came through for me. Dedication, hard work and smart work were very key on my journey to graduating in flying colours. I can’t also leave out the fact that keeping the right company with like minds is very vital in achieving success. 

How do you think your background contributes to your problem-solving and analytical thinking skills?

Studying any engineering course will definitely stretch your thinking and problem-solving capabilities. Personally, studying computer engineering coupled with the various courses and tasks given has definitely made me a critical thinker. We don’t give up on problems easily as engineers. 

What were your biggest challenges on campus and how did you deal with them?

My biggest challenge on campus was to always be a better version of myself as the semesters pass by. I strived to do better than the previous semester. I started with a CGPA of 4.71 in the 100 level, and in the 200 level I had a CGPA of 4.70. Before the 300 level started, I was so determined to always increase my CGPA and not go down anymore. Between 300 level and 500 level completion there were significant changes in my approach to study which eventually paid off, I finished with a 4.80 CGPA. God almighty is the major reason behind this increase, I must always acknowledge God almighty because there is no success without Him.  

What do you believe sets you apart from other engineering graduates?

I believe everyone is unique in their own way but one thing I know that makes me unique is the fact that I can’t do anything without the help of God, that is why everything I lay my hands to do always succeeds because I have the Almighty God backing me always. 

In your opinion, what are the most significant challenges currently facing the engineering profession, and how would you address them? 

The major challenge facing the engineering profession and many other professions is adaptation to the massive wave of artificial intelligence. 

How do you stay updated with the latest industry trends?

I stay current by continuous learning. I am a lifelong learner, always ready to learn new things especially from proven authors and relevant contents. 

Could you describe your final-year project? 

I worked on a project to detect fake currency using machine learning algorithms coupled with image processing titled “Design and Implementation of a Fake Currency Detection System Based on Machine Learning Algorithms”. It underscores the significance of combating financial crimes and fostering economic growth. Leveraging Convolutional Neural Networks such as VGG16 and YOLOv5, the project achieved a notable 95.9% accuracy in identifying counterfeit banknotes. This work aligns with the United Nations SDG 8, emphasising sustainable economic development and inclusive employment. 

What are your long-term career goals, and how do you envision your skills and knowledge evolving in the future?

My long-term career goal is to basically add value to humanity at large utilising the tech space and charity platform. I believe in the plans God has for me, so I just follow His lead as He unfolds my destiny to me phase by phase. For the time being I’m going on a journey into the world of data.