For Chevening scholar Ahmed, construction has always been about more than buildings and roads, it's about people. We find out how he's applying his UK experience to build a more sustainable future.
Before Chevening, Ahmed Omar Robleh was working as a civil engineer on humanitarian infrastructure projects, supporting vulnerable communities in refugee villages. Through this work, he saw first-hand how infrastructure can improve quality of life and create opportunities for communities facing difficult circumstances.
Those experiences inspired him to build his skills and learn more about how major construction projects are planned and delivered.
Motivated by the UK’s reputation for excellence in the built environment, Ahmed applied for a Chevening Scholarship to study Construction Project Management at London Metropolitan University.
As an iibGroup-funded Chevening scholar, Ahmed has spent the past year developing his knowledge of construction project management, leadership, and sustainability.
‘One of the highlights of my experience has been visiting and learning from some remarkable development and infrastructure projects in London, which allowed me to connect theory with real-world practice.’
Ahmed feels that seeing these projects up close has helped him to understand how large-scale developments are planned, managed, and delivered, giving him ideas and insights he hopes to use in his own career.
Studying in the UK has also also given Ahmed the chance to meet people from around the world and learn from their experiences.
‘The Chevening network has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey. It connected me with inspiring scholars from across the globe, giving us the chance to exchange ideas on policy, development challenges, and our shared aspirations.
‘These connections have expanded my perspective, strengthened my global network, and, perhaps most importantly, helped us to support one another through the challenges of adapting to life in the UK.’
He feels these relationships have been just as valuable as the knowledge gained in the classroom.
When he returns to Djibouti, Ahmed hopes to use what he has learned to support the country’s construction sector and encourage best practice across the industry. His goal is to help deliver projects that improve people’s lives and create lasting benefits for communities.
‘As an iibGroup-funded scholar, I hope to contribute to the development of the construction sector and promote best practices in Djibouti. I aim to maintain and strengthen the relationships and international network I have built through the Chevening community, fostering future collaboration for positive change.’
The skills, knowledge, and connections he has gained during his scholarship will help him take the next step towards that goal.
As an international banking group, the iibGroup is driving sustainable growth in regions ranging from Europe to Africa and the Middle East.
‘In Cape Verde and Djibouti, we see not just markets, but vibrant communities on the cusp of transformative growth. These two nations, while distinct in their cultures and geographies, share a common trait: they are strategic hubs with immense potential. We believe that their greatest resource is not their geographic position, but their people. By sponsoring these scholarships, we are investing in the leaders who will harness their nation’s potential.’
‘Documentary filmmaking transformed my approach to storytelling. Ultimately, Chevening revealed my true potential and demonstrated exactly what I am capable of achieving.’
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