Christian T. Bassom Bita, a 25-year-old postgraduate student from Cameroon, is making strides in the field of geotechnical engineering at KNUST. Currently pursuing an M.Phil in Geotechnical Engineering, a specialisation within Civil Engineering, Christian’s academic journey is marked by dedication, continuous learning, and a drive to deepen his expertise.
His interest in geotechnical engineering developed during his undergraduate studies in Cameroon, where he primarily focused on structural analysis. Seeking to broaden his knowledge, he chose to specialise in geotechnical engineering at the postgraduate level. Since joining KNUST, he has refined his understanding of key areas such as soil mechanics, foundation design, and geosynthetic engineering, which are fundamental to civil engineering practice.
Among the many experiences that have shaped his academic growth, Christian recalls a field trip to Tarkwa’s Gold Mining Area, where he and his colleagues studied tailings dams, a crucial aspect of geotechnical engineering. Another defining moment was a visit to a construction site along the Accra-Kumasi Road, where he observed the construction of deep foundations under the guidance of Dr. Patrick Bekoe. These hands-on experiences have complemented his coursework, bridging the gap between theory and real-world application.
Balancing academic and personal life as a postgraduate student can be challenging, but Christian has found an effective way to manage his time. With his courses scheduled on weekends, he dedicates his weekdays to research and personal projects, ensuring that he remains productive while maintaining a well-rounded student experience. Currently engaged in a research project, he has also gained practical experience through extensive laboratory testing. Initially, he faced challenges with certain lab and field tests that he had not encountered during his undergraduate studies. However, with the support of his lecturers and active participation in lab sessions, he was able to overcome these obstacles and strengthen his technical expertise.
Reflecting on his journey, Christian encourages undergraduate students to consider postgraduate studies as a means of gaining specialised skills and deeper knowledge. He believes that postgraduate education provides a solid foundation for those looking to excel in industry or research.
With his passion for civil engineering and commitment to professional growth, Christian T. Bassom Bita exemplifies the impact of postgraduate education in refining expertise and opening doors to new opportunities. His journey at KNUST continues to inspire many within the College and beyond.
