STEPS4GROWTH- From simulating city traffic to envisioning a cleaner future, Precious Anduvberokharo, a Ph.D. student in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, is harnessing technology to make urban mobility more sustainable.
Working under Dr. Oshun, Precious uses SUMO (Simulation of Urban Mobility) software to run traffic simulations, analyze vehicle-to-vehicle communication, and explore ways to minimize emissions. “The most difficult part of my work has been managing timelines and learning an entirely new field,” Precious explained. “Coming from physics without a background in computer science, I had to build an understanding piece by piece. At first you don’t see the big picture, but over time, it all starts to come together.”
Originally from Nigeria, Precious earned a bachelor’s degree in physics at Delta State University in Nigeria before moving to the U.S. for a master’s degree in physics at North Carolina Central University. While physics was challenging and theoretical, his shift to computer science has given him a chance to apply knowledge in real-world ways. “I’ve always been IT savvy and wanted to be in the IT industry, so this was an easy transition for me,” he said. “I actually got a scholarship to Howard for a Ph.D. in physics, but I chose this path because it’s what I’m passionate about.”
Beyond the classroom and lab, Precious has big dreams. His long-term goal is to establish his own IT company with headquarters in the U.S. and branches across Africa. After gaining about ten years of industry experience, he plans to return to academia to teach and mentor the next generation of students. “It’s important to me to have hands-on experience in the real world before I come back to share that knowledge,” Precious said. “That way, I can help students not only learn the theories but also see how they connect to real solutions.”
For now, Precious is enjoying the balance of research and life in Greensboro. “I’m a quiet person, so I like that it’s a more chill situation compared to Durham,” he shared with a smile.
