Lagos Scholar Ayomikun Ayodeji to Pursue Energy Studies at Oxford

Ayomikun “Ayo” Ayodeji from Lagos, Nigeria, has been awarded the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship for West Africa, enabling fully funded postgraduate studies at Oxford University starting next fall.

A Vision for Reliable Energy and Inclusive Communities

Ayo is deeply committed to promoting reliable energy access across Africa and creating inclusive communities that celebrate cultural diversity. As a Rhodes Scholar, he will pursue a Master’s degree in Energy Systems as well as a Master’s in Global Governance and Diplomacy.

In 2022, he graduated from MIT with Bachelor of Science degrees in Chemical Engineering and Management. Currently, he serves as an associate at the Boston Consulting Group (BCG).

Academic and Professional Achievements

Professor Nancy Kanwisher, co-chair of the Presidential Committee on Distinguished Fellowships, praised Ayo’s dedication: “Ayo has worked hard to develop his vision and to communicate it in ways that resonate with the broader world. It is thrilling to see him recognized as a Rhodes Scholar this year.”

During his time at MIT, Ayo’s passion for energy innovations was sparked by his research on perovskite solar cells under the MIT Energy Initiative. He further enhanced his expertise during an internship at Pioneer Natural Resources, applying machine learning tools in completion strategies. At BCG, he supports both public and private clients on renewable energy initiatives including clean energy transitions, decarbonization pathways, and workforce development.

“Ayo has worked hard to develop his vision and to communicate it in ways that resonate with the broader world.”

Community Impact and Leadership

Driven by a community-centric approach, Ayo collaborated with friends to partner with the Northeast Children’s Trust (NECT), aiding children affected by Boko Haram insurgency in northeastern Nigeria. Supported by Davis Projects for Peace and MIT’s PKG Center, their project developed an offline, portable classroom server enhancing NECT’s educational programs.

Ayo has also contributed significantly to MIT by serving as an undergraduate representative on the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee of the Chemical Engineering Department. He was Vice President of the MIT African Students’ Association and coordinated the annual MIT International Students Orientation.

Support and Mentorship

His journey has been bolstered by the Distinguished Fellowships team in Career Advising and Professional Development, alongside invaluable mentorship from the Presidential Committee on Distinguished Fellowships.