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The competition, held online by Lambung Mangkurat University, became a stage for Lefrand to prove his academic capabilities, even amidst a busy schedule of thesis writing and major projects.

In the competition, Lefrand submitted a scientific paper titled, "Application of MICP as Bio-Shotcrete: Performance Evaluation of Underground Wall Structural Reinforcement and Decarbonization of Mining Operations." The innovation he offered focuses on the topic of Geomechanics, specifically addressing the industry challenge of underground tunnel stability. "The strategy I applied was to present a practical yet scientific idea to answer a challenge frequently faced by the mining industry," Lefrand stated in an interview.

His primary motivation for entering the competition was the desire to achieve an academic accomplishment after having been heavily involved in student organization activities. This victory has thus become very meaningful for him. "Of course, I am thrilled to have proven to myself that I could win a championship, especially as a final-year student," he said. "This win is very meaningful to me because I feel I have successfully poured the knowledge I've gained during my studies into a written work." Said Lefrand.

The journey to victory was not without its challenges. Lefrand admitted that the short preparation time, which had to be managed alongside a major Mine Planning project and his thesis writing, was quite draining. However, thanks to strong support from his academic environment, he successfully navigated through it.

This success, he noted, was inseparable from the guidance of his lecturers. "It is certainly thanks to the knowledge provided by all the Mining Engineering lecturers throughout my studies, and especially to Mr. Yudhidya Wicaksana as my supervising lecturer, who always made time and offered brilliant suggestions," he mentioned. He added that the Head of the Study Program, Mr. Fadhila, also gave his full blessing and support.

Although he has no plans for other competitions as he is graduating soon, this victory has sparked his enthusiasm to continue writing. Lefrand hopes to write scientific papers again when he continues his studies at the master's level in Mining Engineering at ITB.

In closing, Lefrand shared an inspiring message for his fellow students. "Never hesitate to try, even when you are overwhelmed with coursework and your final thesis. Achievement doesn't always come at the beginning of the journey; sometimes it arrives when we are at our busiest. Make use of every bit of knowledge you have acquired, and be brave enough to channel it into a project or competition. Remember, the most important thing is not just winning, but how the process shapes us into more resilient individuals, ready to face the challenges of the mining world," he concluded.