Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Recipient Carol Munywoki from Kenya Shares Her Journey of Pursuing a Master of Engineering in Electrical Power and Sustainable Energy at Auckland University of Technology (AUT)

My name is Carol Munywoki, and I am from Kenya. I am an Electrical Engineer working in the energy sector with Kenya Power. I hold a Master of Engineering (First Class Honours) from the Auckland University of Technology (AUT), New Zealand, as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Kenya.

Coming from a marginalized community shaped my perspective early; I learned that access to opportunity is never guaranteed, but impact is always possible. My journey reflects persistence, resilience, and a commitment to advancing global energy transition. I pursued further education to deepen my expertise in power and sustainable energy systems and to strengthen my ability to expand access to clean, reliable energy in underserved communities.

Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Details

In 2023, I received the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship to undertake a Master of Engineering at the Auckland University of Technology (AUT). The scholarship was fully funded, covering tuition fees, living allowance, travel costs, and medical insurance with a value of approximately NZ$135,000.

My studies began in 2024, and after 1.5 years of rigorous academic and research work, I graduated in August 2025 with First Class Honours. This achievement reflected the persistence I had demonstrated since 2020, applying for scholarships year after year until I finally succeeded.

Educational & Professional Background

My Master of Engineering programme at the Auckland University of Technology included advanced coursework and research focused on electrical power systems and sustainable energy engineering. I also hold a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Kenya, where I built a strong foundation in power systems, electrical machines, transmission and distribution networks, and system analysis.

At Kenya Power, I have participated in grid operations and power systems protection. This professional experience exposed me to the realities of energy reliability, access challenges, and the urgent need for sustainable solutions.

This blend of advanced academic training and industry experience positioned me with a clear vision: to contribute meaningfully to global energy transition and to advocate for greater women’s representation in technical leadership.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Auckland University of Technology?

I approached the process strategically. I identified programmes that aligned with my professional focus in power systems and sustainable energy development. I evaluated research strengths, curriculum structure, and institutional reputation before applying. To strengthen my applications, I carefully reviewed faculty expertise, ongoing research projects, and the institution’s industry partnerships, ensuring they matched my career trajectory. My application clearly demonstrated alignment between my professional goals and the programme’s academic strengths, which helped present me as a candidate with both clarity of purpose and long-term vision.

How Did You Find Information About Scholarships and the Auckland University of Technology?

I actively monitored official government scholarship platforms, university websites, and international education portals to identify opportunities aligned with my vision. Between 2020 and 2023, I applied for competitive scholarships year after year, refining my applications and learning from each attempt. In 2023, I applied to the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship and secured it, a breakthrough that reflected years of preparation and persistence.

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests? If So, How Did You Prepare for Them?

I met the English language proficiency requirements through my academic qualifications, as English is one of the official languages in my country. Therefore, I did not need to sit for a standardized English test.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship?

Preparing for the scholarship required clarity and discipline. I shaped a long-term vision that connected my studies to Kenya’s energy transition and the global energy landscape, showing how my education could strengthen sustainable power solutions back home. I highlighted my leadership and community impact while ensuring my academic record and professional experience aligned seamlessly with my future goals. To prepare thoroughly, I studied the scholarship criteria, refined my personal statement through multiple drafts, and sought feedback to ensure my application reflected both authenticity and impact. Above all, I presented my education not just as personal growth, but as an investment in the energy sector and the communities I serve.

How is (was) Your Experience at the Auckland University of Technology? 

Studying at the Auckland University of Technology was both academically rigorous and personally transformative. The programme challenged me to think critically, sharpen my research skills, and deepen my expertise in advanced engineering. Completing a 60-point dissertation was a defining moment; it taught me how to carry out independent research and communicate complex technical findings with clarity and confidence. Beyond academics, AUT gave me the space to grow as a person, building resilience and confidence in a multicultural environment far from home.

How Do You Rate the Auckland University of Technology Academically and Why?

I rate AUT very highly. The Master of Engineering in Electrical programme was research-driven, industry-relevant, and intellectually demanding. It strengthened my analytical thinking and prepared me for leadership in both technical and policy spaces. The curriculum encouraged reflective engagement, critical problem-solving, and practical application of advanced engineering concepts, all of which are essential for contributing to the global energy transition.

How Does the Auckland University of Technology Support International Students?

AUT provided outstanding support for international students, both academically and personally. Orientation programmes and academic writing workshops helped me adjust quickly to the learning environment. Research supervisors offered close guidance throughout my dissertation, while student wellbeing services, counseling, and peer mentoring ensured I felt supported beyond academics. The multicultural community and initiatives promoting women in STEM created a sense of belonging, allowing me to thrive without barriers of culture or language. This strong and well-structured support empowered me to succeed not only as a student but also as a leader prepared to contribute to global energy solutions.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe clarity of purpose and authenticity made my application stand out. I demonstrated strong academic preparation and meaningful professional experience in Kenya’s energy sector. I showed a clear link between my studies and national development priorities, and highlighted my commitment to driving positive change in society. Most importantly, I brought the perspective of a woman determined to excel in STEM, reinforcing that diverse voices and leadership perspectives strengthen the future of energy.

I presented education not as a personal achievement alone, but as a tool for broader societal impact.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

If I were going through the process again, I would seek mentorship earlier to guide me through the application journey. Mentors could have helped me refine my approach sooner. Still, the persistence I built from applying year after year between 2020 and 2023 proved invaluable; it strengthened my resilience, sharpened my strategy, and ultimately prepared me for success.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

• Start early – give yourself enough time to prepare thoroughly.
• Define your long-term goals – show how your studies connect to them.
• Align with national priorities – demonstrate how your proposed work supports your country’s development.
• Expect rejection – don’t let it discourage you; each attempt builds resilience and sharpens your strategy.
• Be patient with success – it may come after many tries or surprise you on the first attempt, but every step adds strength and clarity.

Closing Reflections

This scholarship journey was more than an academic pursuit; it became a turning point that affirmed the power of persistence and vision. I discovered that opportunities open when preparation meets clarity of purpose, and that each step, whether it brought success or setback, added strength to the path ahead. Today, I carry forward not only advanced technical expertise but also a deep responsibility to use it in the service of communities and the broader energy transition. My hope is that others will see in my story a reminder that determination, authenticity, and belief in one’s journey can transform challenges into milestones.