The DCP University Engineering Challenge invites university engineering students to develop practical, evidence-based solutions to real operational problems faced in cement manufacturing. Working in teams, students choose one of four challenge tracks and present an engineering and business case for a workable solution.
Application Deadline:
- 9 July 2026 (11:59 PM WAT)
Tell Me About The Competition:
The DCP University Engineering Challenge is organised by the University of Lagos Engineering Society Academic & Research Board (ULES ARB) and sponsored by Dangote Cement Plc (DCP). It invites undergraduate engineering students to design practical, evidence-based solutions to real operational challenges in cement manufacturing. The competition bridges academic engineering with industry practise while developing problem‑solving, data analysis, and business case communication skills.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Teams select one of four challenge tracks:
- Alternative Fuel Sourcing – sourcing models for safe, cost‑competitive alternative fuels.
- Predictive Maintenance – early-warning systems for equipment reliability.
- Cement Conversion Gap – diagnosing clinker‑to‑cement conversion losses.
- Digital KPI Automation – improving data quality and management decision‑making.
Type:
- Undergraduate Engineering Competition | Nigeria | Industry-Based Research
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be teams of 2–4 currently enrolled engineering students.
- Be from the same university.
- Submit original work.
- Multidisciplinary teams are encouraged.
- No prior cement industry experience required.
How are Applicants Selected?
Judging criteria include:
- Creativity and originality.
- Strength of visual and technical communication.
- Concept and storytelling.
- Cohesion of engineering and business case.
- Quality of presentation.
- Evidence of research and process.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- Nigeria (university engineering students).
Where will the Competition be Held?
- University of Lagos (UNILAG), Nigeria.
How Many Awards?
- Gold (1st place): ₦700,000 + certificate
- Silver (2nd place): ₦500,000 + certificate
- Bronze (3rd place): ₦300,000 + certificate
- Total prize pool: ₦1.5 million
What is the Benefit of the Program?
- Cash prizes.
- Certificates of achievement.
- Exposure to real industry challenges.
- Networking with Dangote Cement Plc and engineering peers.
- Opportunity to showcase innovative solutions.
How Long Will the Program Last?
- Competition cycle: 30 June – 14 July 2026.
- Final pitch and awards: 14 July 2026 at UNILAG.
Required Documents:
- Team registration form.
- Project submission (aligned with chosen track).
How to Apply:
- Form a team of 2–4 engineering students.
- Select one challenge track.
- Prepare and submit your project by 9 July 2026 (11:59 PM WAT).
- Shortlist announced 12 July 2026.
- Final pitch and awards at UNILAG on 14 July 2026.
Visit the Application Webpage for Details
