Latifah Kinyanyile

St Cross for Africa (AfOx)

Joining us from: Tanzania

MSc Energy Systems (2024)

I am pursuing an MSc in Energy Systems with the Department of Engineering Science. I completed a BEng (Hons) in Electrical Power Systems Engineering at the African Leadership College and, before coming to Oxford, worked as a development consultant on climate-related projects in developing countries.

Studying for this MSc has been a transformative experience. The course has been an excellent fit: interdisciplinary and highly relevant to the context I work in, mainly Sub-Saharan Africa, with valuable exposure to real-world case studies and insight from leading researchers. My academic interests lie in net-zero energy systems, with a particular focus on ensuring the reliability of power systems. This is critical as we work towards Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7 to electrify the population in Sub-Saharan Africa, where most of the global population without access to electricity lives. For my MSc dissertation, I am examining how electricity access is measured in the region to better inform planning. I am also interested in exploring ways to finance the energy transition.

I’m incredibly grateful to have received the St Cross Scholarship through the Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx) and the support of alumna Anne Vandenabeele. Beyond making it possible to pursue my studies here, it has introduced me to a vibrant community of graduate students, where I have found lasting friendships and inspiration from the research others are undertaking. St Cross has played a big part in shaping my Oxford experience. The college community is diverse, warm, and welcoming, and I have felt supported every step of the way.

Outside of class, I try to take in as much of Oxford as I can. I especially enjoy long scenic walks, afternoons at the Botanic Garden, visiting museums, and reading at the park.