A project recommended by Beijing Forestry University (BFU), developed in collaboration with two Nigerian universities, won a silver award at the Africa Regional Final of the China International College Students' Innovation Competition (2026), held recently in Nairobi, Kenya. This marks BFU's first award in the competition's Africa regional category.

Launched in May, the competition drew over 600 students from 92 African universities, with only 20 projects advancing to the finals. BFU's winning entry, "Lightwood Clean Source: THE LEADER OF CLEAN WATER SOURCES ALONG —— THE BELT AND ROAD", is built on technology from Associate Professor Chen Sheng's research group at the College of Materials Science and Technology. The project addresses Nigeria's clean water needs through lignin-based filtration and solar-powered purification, developed with field research conducted by partner institutions across the country, and BFU's Undergraduate School, International Relations Office, and International College supported collaboration between domestic and international teams. 

The Africa regional category, established in 2025, offers a dedicated track for students from African universities under the Belt and Road Initiative. This achievement reflects BFU's progress in integrating education with industry and advancing international cooperation. The university will continue to partner with institutions to promote green technologies and strengthen students' innovation and entrepreneurship capabilities.  

Written by Du Ruo, Zhang Duo
Translated and edited by Song He
Reviewed by Yu Yangyang