Rotary Scholar Kenechukwu “Kaycee” Okoli in Delft, Netherlands.
By Kenechukwu “Kaycee” Okoli, Rotary Scholar from Nigeria
Leaving Nigeria for Delft, Netherlands, to take part in a Rotary scholarship program at UNESCO-IHE has been an overwhelmingly positive experience. It has been a goal of mine to pursue advanced studies in hydraulic engineering. Being a Rotary scholar, not only has funding been provided for my graduate studies, but I am part of a strategy conceived by Rotary to address the complex issues of water and sanitation. It inspires me to rise to the challenge of seeking solutions to the world’s water and sanitation crisis as a water professional.
The academic environment at UNESCO-IHE is vibrant. The lecture sessions are delivered in an interactive style. Each student brings a different level of experience and practices unique to their countries. Assignments and role plays are used to bring us together as a team in solving problems.
My host counselors Henk-Jaap Kloosterman, Kees Mohring and the rest of the Rotary Club of Voorburg-Vliet are super nice! Their social gatherings have been a way to let out some steam after intense academic work and also experience Dutch culture.
Being my first time in Europe, I am still slugging it out with the cold weather and learning to ride a bicycle, a typical means of transportation in the Netherlands. I consider my pool of friends here among my most cherished assets. They are awesome! The fact that we all came from different nationalities and social backgrounds has not deterred us from doing things together and supporting each other through challenges. We took turns preparing typical dishes from our respective countries and this act made us close-knit.
The Rotary scholarship is not only ensuring that I’m able to go through my studies, but is also improving my confidence and interpersonal skills. I am living one of the best moments of my life in the Netherlands!
- Learn more about Rotary’s strategic partnership with UNESCO-IHE
- Read about the program on the UNESCO-IHE website
Rotary Voices 
what can one do better than striving to the well-being of humanity in life time? The Rotary Foundation deserves all the credit for helping scholars attain their wishes and stand for better life of communities. I would be very glad if I join you there in Delft in the coming October.
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This is very inspiring Kaycee. Never mind, better weather is coming to you in Delft! Enjoy the rest of your studies.
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I wish you well kaycee. Its amazing how the program has enabled you to reach such great heights…in Kenya, we are still struggling with bringing on board scholars who can benefit from Rotary’s Scholarship programs. All the best!
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