Meeting with Emmanuelle Claude KAPGANG NZAWE, future engineer at IMT Mines Albi and winner of the Eiffel 2025 grant

What does the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship mean to you?

Winning the Eiffel Excellence Scholarship means much more to me than just financial support. It's recognition of my academic commitment, my clear professional project and my ambition to contribute actively to the development of my country. This scholarship represents a unique opportunity to gain access to high-level training, to benefit from an international network of excellence, and to strengthen my skills in a stimulating environment. It's a real springboard towards the realization of my goal: to build sustainable infrastructures adapted to the local realities of Cameroon and, more broadly, of developing countries.

How did you come to apply for this scholarship?

I was very closely accompanied by IMT Mines Albi, especially after the admission results. I was lucky enough to be put in touch with IMT Mines Albi's International Affairs department, which supported me throughout the process. The whole team was extremely available, responsive to all my concerns, and guided me step by step through the process of putting together my application for the Eiffel scholarship. Their support was invaluable, both on a technical and human level, and gave me the confidence I needed to successfully complete the process. At the same time, nstitut 2iE also provided me with support, in particular by encouraging me in my endeavours and helping me to structure my training project.

Why did you choose IMT Mines Albi?

I chose IMT Mines Albi for several reasons. Firstly, I was immediately attracted by the quality of its teaching and its innovative approach. The “Sustainable Buildings and Cities” course is a perfect match for my aspirations, as it integrates renewable energies, sustainable construction and digital simulation tools. Secondly, the modules at IMT Mines Albi are very complementary to those I took at 2iE. Finally, the school's strong involvement in applied research and its collaboration with major players in the sector.

What do you hope to gain from your two years of study in France?

For me, these two years of study in France represent a phase of personal and professional enrichment. I'm looking forward to acquiring cutting-edge technical skills that I can't fully develop in the context of my current studies. I also hope to evolve in a multicultural and interdisciplinary environment, to broaden my vision of the challenges of sustainable construction. It's also an opportunity to build up an international network and open myself up to future collaborations with world-renowned institutions.

What are your plans for the future?

In the long term, I'd like to hold positions of responsibility in sustainable infrastructure development projects in Africa. My ambition is to actively contribute to improving living conditions for populations, particularly in the underdeveloped areas of Cameroon. I want to either join public or private organizations, or collaborate with NGOs in designing innovative technical solutions adapted to local constraints. I also hope, through training, to pass on my skills to young professionals in the field, so as to amplify the impact of my actions in the field.