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Meet-the-Scholar: An Interview with Musa Opeyemi Salami

This week’s “Meet-the-Scholar” features Musa Opeyemi Salami, a 300-level Mechanical Engineering student of the University of Ibadan and the Coordinator of the Muslim Techites Study Group (MTSG). In this interview with Faidah Abdulkareem, he reflects on his academic journey, leadership experience, challenges, and aspirations shaped by his studies and responsibilities.


Who is Musa Opeyemi Salami?

I am Musa Opeyemi Salami, a 300-level student from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Ibadan.
I am also an active member of MSSNUI serving in the Directorate of Studies as the MTSG (Muslim Techites Study Group) coordinator by Allah's will.


What motivated your choice of Mechanical Engineering?

In terms of motivation to study Mechanical Engineering, I will say I have had a flair for mechanical systems from a very young age due to certain exposures through some acquaintances and more importantly I chose it so I can help people through the invention of useful solutions to real life problems.


You currently serve as the MTSG Coordinator. How has the experience been so far?

The experience has been interesting, engaging and informative so far, though in some instances it can be quite challenging, having to coordinate students and also take care of yourself and your academics at the same time. In all, I rely on Allah's mercy and guidance; by His grace I will continue to put in my best.


How has working closely with students as MTSG Coordinator influenced your leadership style, teamwork, and relationships with others?

Serving as the MTSG Coordinator has made me a better person in general. It has made me a more outward person I must confess, judging from moving from being an introvert. My leadership skills and interpersonal relationship have also improved in general, and I have made efforts to improve myself by joining some leadership fellowships recently. I am now more ready and eager to work in a team and I enjoy leading others to achieve a common goal, putting Allah in the basis of all my affairs.


What setbacks have you encountered in your university journey, and how have you overcome them?

One major setback I had was in 100-level, particularly in the second semester, where I had to juggle tutoring SSCE and UTME students and making up for missed classes. This made me take extra time in the library to go through what had been taught again and again before I could understand fully. Also, I had an issue with my CHE 176 test score; I scored very low and I was determined to get an A in the course so I had to study extraordinarily to make up for the marks in my examination. By Allah's grace, I was able to get an A in the course, getting just above the 70 mark.
I believe all setbacks can be confronted if done with Sabr and faith in Allah. If the result doesn't go as planned, we should endeavour to take it as destiny and strive to do better.


‎Juggling academics, leadership responsibilities, and other commitments, how do you balance everything without compromising any of them?

Personally, I believe I am not in the position to evaluate how I am able to juggle my tasks. I try to plan my time well ahead, put in my very best and leave the rest to Allah.


‎Many students focus only on being academically sound. From your experience, what does it mean to be “life smart” as well?

I believe being "life smart" means you've got more than just book smarts. It's about applying what you've learned to real-life situations, building meaningful relationships, developing emotional intelligence, and navigating challenges with resilience and adaptability.
It's about balancing grades with personal growth, social skills, and practical knowledge that'll serve you well beyond the classroom.
Above all, making Solah, Dua and Tawakkul our guide to excellence.


‎How are the experiences and lessons you’ve gained in school shaping your personal life beyond academics?

It's making me a more resilient person. My experience in UI has been both inspiring and demoralising. Inspiring in the sense that I have become more comfortable to communicate my ideas to people whether in academic or on a personal note. For the latter, I try to make the best out of every condition even when they are not suitable.


‎As a top-performing student, what study habits or strategies have helped you maintain academic excellence?

First, putting Allah (SWT) first in all I do especially when preparing for tests and examinations because He is Ar-Rahman and only He grants one beneficial knowledge.
Also, I try to identify my weaknesses in the various courses I am offering and I make concerted efforts to improve in those areas.
Furthermore, I cultivate the attitude of asking questions either from my mates or seniors and in some cases, I do extensive research on the course on the internet. I also believe that understanding my best routine for studying has also helped me.


‎How do you hope to apply your knowledge of Mechanical Engineering to real-life situations or societal impact?

I hope to apply my knowledge in helping my immediate community through poverty alleviation, climate research, efficient transport systems, etc.
My major goal is to touch as many lives through my sojourn on the surface of the earth.


‎Where do you see yourself in the next few years, and how are you currently working towards that vision?

I see myself at the forefront of engineering, sustainable innovation, transportation, biomedical and all other aspects of renewable energy systems. Right now, I am brushing up my technical, IT and leadership skills.
I am also hoping to get involved in projects that push the boundaries of mechanical innovation.