Demmerle Phillip Martin, a Bachelor of Petroleum Engineering and Environmental Management graduate, has emerged as the best student at Mbarara University of Science and Technology's (MUST) 31st graduation ceremony.
With a stellar Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.72, Martin topped the graduating class of 2024, which comprised 1,615 students, including 16 who were awarded PhDs.
His achievement is historic, as he is the first overall best student from the Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology in the university's 35 years of growth and impact.
His academic journey at MUST was marked by resilience and determination. Coming from Kampala, he faced the challenge of adjusting to life in Mbarara, which became even more demanding during the COVID-19 pandemic, as students navigated disrupted academic schedules.
Despite these obstacles, he excelled in his studies, emerging as the top student in his faculty and across the university.
In his valedictory speech, Demmerle expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the support he received from his lecturers, parents, and the university community.
"I am very glad to be the valedictorian of the class of 2024 and the very first from this faculty. To raise a child, the whole village must take part, and that is what MUST has done," he said.
He credited his lecturers for their dedication, his parents for their unwavering encouragement, and the university's nurturing environment for shaping his academic growth.
Beyond academics, Demmerle was actively involved in various extracurricular activities. He served as the treasurer for the Society of Petroleum Engineers MUST chapter and gained hands-on industry experience during an internship at CNOOC Uganda Limited.
Additionally, he led his faculty's basketball team to victory in three out of four championships organized within the university.
Demmerle leadership and dedication extended beyond his student life.
He took on a part-time lecturing role immediately after completing his studies and is currently undergoing graduate training with Inspector Africa in Kamwokya.
Looking ahead, he plans to pursue two master's degrees, one in Oil and Gas Production and another in Business Administration (MBA), with the goal of making a significant impact in the oil and gas industry.
"Everyone around me has excelled, not just passed," Demmerle remarked, emphasizing the collective achievements of his peers. He is committed to using his knowledge and skills to inspire future generations and contribute to the growth of the oil and gas sector in Uganda.
Demmerle journey serves as a testament to his dedication and the quality of education at MUST.
His achievements set a benchmark for future students and exemplify the university's commitment to producing well-rounded graduates who are ready to shape the future.