DCP University Engineering Challenge 2026: Win Up to ₦1.5M

DCP University Engineering Challenge

The DCP University Engineering Challenge, sponsored by Dangote Cement Plc, a premier national research competition for Nigerian Engineering undergraduates is now accepting applications.

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DCP University Engineering Challenge presents a ₦1.5M prize awards to university engineering students that develop practical, evidence-based solutions to real operational problems faced in cement manufacturing.

The challenge tasks multi-disciplinary student teams (2–4 members) with designing real-world, sustainable industrial solutions, particularly focusing on resource circularity and plant optimization.

In this post, the full details of the eligibility, benefits, timeline, and application procedure will be provided.

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DCP University Engineering Challenge Abstract

  • Host: Dangote Cement
  • Location: Nigeria
  • Category: Competitions 
  • Benefits:
    • Cash Prizes:
      • 1st Place 700,000 Naira
      • 2nd Place: 500,000 Naira
      • 3rd Place: 300,000 Naira
    • Certificate of Recognition
  • Eligibility: Nigeria
  • Deadline: July 9, 2026

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Undergraduate Industry-Based Engineering Research Competition Details

The DCP University Engineering Challenge invites university engineering students to develop practical, evidence-based solutions to real operational problems faced in cement manufacturing. Working in teams, students choose one of four challenge tracks and present an engineering and business case for a workable solution

The challenge is set and sponsored by Dangote Cement Plc (DCP), whose operations include plants at Obajana, Ibese, Gboko and Okpella. It is designed to connect classroom learning with industry practice and to give students a structured way to apply engineering reasoning to genuine plant-level problems.

This challenge is designed to:

  • Bridge the gap between academic engineering and real industrial operations
  • Develop students’ problem-solving, data, and business-case communication skills
  • Surface fresh, practical ideas for cement manufacturing efficiency, reliability and sustainability
  • Build links between DCP and emerging engineering talent across universities

DCP University Engineering Challenge Benefits

Awards will be presented to the top teams at the conclusion of the challenge. Prize details will be confirmed by the organising team before the final pitch.

AwardPrizeRecognition
1st Place700,000 NairaCertificate
2nd Place500,000 NairaCertificate
3rd Place300,000 NairaCertificate

Dangote Cement Undergraduate Industry-Based Engineering Research Competition Tracks

Each team selects ONE of the following tracks. All four tracks are weighted equally; choose the one that best matches your team’s strengths and disciplines.

  • Challenge 1: Alternative Fuel Sourcing and Pricing Optimization
  • Challenge 2: Predictive Maintenance and Reliability Early-Warning System
  • Challenge 3: Cement Production Conversion Gap
  • Challenge 4: Digital KPI Automation and Data Quality

Undergraduate Industry-Based Engineering Research Competition Requirements

To be eligible for the Undergraduate Industry-Based Engineering Research Competition, applicants must satisfy the following conditions:

  • Teams of 2–4 currently enrolled university engineering students
  • Teams must be from one school
  • Multidisciplinary teams are encouraged
  • Select one of four challenge track
  • Submit only original work
  • No prior cement-industry experience required

Final Submission Requirements for DCP University Engineering Challenge 2026

Each team is expected to submit the following for its chosen track:

  • A 10-slide executive presentation
  • A technical appendix or model/prototype, where applicable
  • A one-page business case showing value, cost, assumptions and risks
  • A simple implementation roadmap showing immediate, short-term and medium-term actions
  • A risk and safety assessment relevant to the proposed solution
  • A statement of assumptions and data limitations

How To Apply for DCP University Engineering Challenge 2026

To apply for the DCP University Engineering Challenge 2026, follow the instructions we have outlined below; 

  • Read the information we have provided on this webpage and ensure your eligibility
  • Teams enter through the official registration portal: https://ulesarb.org/ 
  • Registration opens on 30th June, 2026 and closes on 9th July, 2026. Late entries will not be accepted.
  • During registration, your team will indicate its chosen challenge track and team members. Submission instructions and templates will be shared with registered teams.

Begin your application by clicking on the button below.

Deadline: July 9th, 2026