Sylvester Abanteriba is a world citizen. He was born in Ghana, educated in Europe, and obtained his Doctor of Engineering Degree at the University of Hannover, Germany. After working in Germany for several years, he immigrated to Australia, where he is a Professor of Propulsion Systems at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology in Melbourne and conducts lectures and research in Propulsion systems including engines for aircraft and automotive applications and rocket technology. Professor Abanteriba and his Costa Rican wife, Dr. Betty Abanteriba, have two sons: Adama and Agomena.  As a Professor, he has made extraordinary contribution to tertiary education and as an engineer, he has made significant contribution to Technology.

In recognition of his exceptional contribution, in January 2023, the Governor General of the Commonwealth of Australia and Chancellor of the Order of Australia, with the approval of King Charles the Third, King of Australia and Sovereign of the Order  of Australia awarded  Professor Abanteriba  the Medal of the Order of Australia for Service to Education and to Engineering, This honour allows him add the designation OAM to his name.

Professor Abanteriba OAM is a man of unusual talent who is at home writing complex scientific papers or papers on political discourse, as well as poetry.

RMIT STEM College’s Post

Congratulations to newly appointed Emeritus Professor Sylvester Abanteriba OAM, who was bestowed the title in recognition of his illustrious career spanning more than three decades at RMIT University.   An award-winning researcher and educator in #engineering, Abanteriba believes in the transformational power of global, industry-connected education, which is what drew him to RMIT.   He has committed his career to nurturing student talent through providing engaging learning experiences as an educator, mentor and longstanding donor to the University. During his time at RMIT, he co-developed a double-degree program in engineering and business, and also spearheaded an initiative to connect students with paid internships and postgraduate research grants across Europe, Asia and North America.   Abanteriba has been recognised with numerous awards for service to education and engineering such as the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM), though his proudest achievement has been the connections he made with students.   “It’s wonderful to see my students grow, learn and accomplish so much in their lives. Throughout the years, I have become godfather to many of their children. It’s an honour to be on their journey,” he said.   Professor Sujeeva Setunge, Associate Deputy Vice-Chancellor R&I (STEM) and Interim Dean of Engineering, said Abanteriba has made a tremendous impact on the lives and careers of many alumni.    “Emeritus Professor Sylvester Albanteriba’s remarkable career has left an indelible mark on RMIT and beyond, and his new title is richly deserved,” she said.