Mr Umang Shah

Business Development Director, En-vision Environmental Services, Surat, India

Director, Shesh Group of Companies, India

Founder Member, NGO Khubsurat Environment Foundation, India

Class of Master of Science (Environmental Engineering), 2019

What made you choose the course in NUS over other courses?

I think Environmental Engineering is the way forward and is the need of the hour for the world. Developing countries like India and China requires Environmental Infrastructure to cope up with their Industrial demand.

We have already started facing water crisis in many parts of the world and lack good ambient air quality in many places. Hence, thought of pursuing MSc. Environmental Engineering to find out more on how I can do my part.

What you like most about this course in NUS?

The hands-on lab sessions gave us the opportunity to put theoretical learning into practicality.

We take water samples from river, air samples from surrounding environment, apply our research and technical skills and try to achieve meaningful solution that leads to save our planet Earth.

The programme prepares us for the future through modules such as Desalination Projects, Air Quality, Physical-Chemical and biological properties of environment. Through these modules I get to learn the fundamentals. We had courses even on software where I learnt MINEQL software pertaining to Chemistry.

I also remember researching on smart Swan Project under A/Prof Karina Gin which can give real time water monitoring data while that robotic Swan swims around the reservoir.

How the course has helped you with your everyday/work life?

My current line of work involves in membrane-based sewage treatment projects and tenders pertaining to membrane desalinations. It is closely related to the module ESE5407 (Membrane Technology) taught by Prof Ng How Yong. Also, Prof He shared the business opportunities in Soil Bioremediation through ESE5301 and ESE5204 modules, which gave me some ideas on how to tackle such complex issues and find more technically and economical feasible solutions.

The course has also enhanced my knowledge in solid and hazardous waste treatment technologies which is growing business in India.

What are the tips for incoming and current students?

For incoming students, there are plenty of opportunities in NUS for you. Make the best out of it. Ask questions and establish relationship with the professors.

For current students, try to secure a relevant internship or work as Research Assistant to have exposure to the real world. You may even connect with the alumni of your desired field to establish a strong network.