A Student Abroad: In the Lab and for the World

Spotlight on Outstanding Volunteer

How a Nigerian Youth Finds

the Convergence of Research and Culture in China

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In 2023, Abubakar Dalhatu from Nigeria arrived in China with the ANSO Scholarship under the Belt and Road Initiative to pursue his master's degree. Upon first setting foot in Beijing, he was immediately captivated by China's profound cultural heritage and rapidly evolving modern landscape. Later, he moved south to Shenzhen and joined the Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, where he began integrating his academic knowledge into cutting-edge explorations of urban sustainable development.

Abubakar’s research spans big data, remote sensing, and geographic information systems (GIS), focusing on developing tools and methods for assessing and advancing urban sustainability. By constructing standardized indicators, interactive maps, and scenario simulation pathways, he provides scientific support for urban planning and climate adaptation, with a special emphasis on applying these technologies to green transitions in African cities.

Fluent in Chinese, English, Arabic, and Hausa, Abubakar is not only a researcher but also a cross-cultural communicator. He has participated in events such as the United Nations Systematic Innovation Seminar, the Beijing Energy Network Forum, and the Shenzhen International Digital Energy Expo, engaging in in-depth exchanges with representatives from companies like BYD and Tencent, and translating industry insights into potential collaborations and pilot projects.

From Participation to Leadership: Becoming a Youth Cultural Exchange Volunteer

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During his time in Shenzhen, he further deepened his understanding of Chinese society and the research ecosystem by taking part in various activities, including the inauguration of the Nanshan Service Manual for Expats, Taoyuan Middle School cultural exchange program, and international career fairs. In recognition of his contributions to promoting youth dialogue, he was appointed as a International Youth Promoter by the International Youth Exchange and Service Station. In this role, he is dedicated to fostering mutual understanding and cooperation between Chinese and international youth. With a focus on building bridges between science and the humanities, he works to facilitate technological and cultural exchange, aiming to strengthen the ecosystem for deeper international collaboration.

As an international student pursuing his studies in Shenzhen, he was selected as an outstanding international student representative and was honored to receive the 2025 Shenzhen Universiade International Scholarship Foundation grant, thanks to his exceptional academic performance and research potential. "Shenzhen is a city of relentless innovation, where startups, research institutes, and industry converge with world class infrastructure and an open international community. That energy has given my work momentum and created real pathways to impact," said Abubakar. "I am truly grateful for the support from the Shenzhen Universiade International Scholarship Foundation, and I would also like to sincerely thank the Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences, for providing a first-class research platform, as well as every mentor and fellow who has offered me guidance and support along the way. Because of you, my research journey has become more solid, and my dreams feel within reach."

Source: SWI