Abuja: Innov8 Hub, a non-profit and non-governmental innovation centre, has emphasized the crucial need for increased investment in research-driven solutions to tackle global challenges. This call to action was made by the NGO’s Deputy General-Manager, Dr. Deji Ige, during a briefing with journalists on the sidelines of the one-day demo for the Academic Solutions Incubation Programme (ASIP) in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the demo event, titled ‘TETFAIR 5,6,7 and ASIP: Demo Day’, was organized by Innov8 Hub in collaboration with the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Alliance for Innovative Research (TETFAIR). The event highlighted the unveiling of 15 brand-new, fully functional prototypes spanning various sectors including agriculture, health, construction technology, digital solutions, and energy. These prototypes were developed by academics and researchers from tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
Dr. Ige stated, “We are showcasing the outcomes of our partnership with TETFund. Innov8 Hub serves as the implementing partner of TETFAIR and ASIP. The selection of lecturers as participants was conducted through an open call for applications from academics in Nigerian tertiary institutions who have researchers aiming to transform ideas into viable solutions to address societal challenges.”
He further explained the process, noting that a large number of applications were received, and the most viable and achievable ideas were selected through a transparent process. Successful academics and researchers were then admitted into the programme. Dr. Ige stressed the importance of having an end goal for every research endeavor, with the goal being transformation and solution-oriented outcomes.
He elaborated on the measures for sustaining such products, noting that after research, the next step is market validation. This involves engaging users to ensure the products’ durability, which can attract further investment for larger-scale commercialization.
Dr. Ige emphasized that participation in TETFAIR, ASIP, and other TETFund initiatives implemented by Innov8 Hub is free of charge, with all expenses covered for selected participants.
In his remarks, Mr. Sunny Echono, Executive-Secretary of TETFund, noted that the demo aimed to promote the relevance of teaching and learning about innovation within institutions and their immediate environments. He highlighted the need for a shift in Nigeria’s education system to address the evolving knowledge economy that emphasizes skills and talents.
Mr. Echono revealed that not less than 72 innovation hubs similar to Innov8 Hub have been established across various campuses, with plans for annual expansion. The programme featured training for lecturers in business development, product refinement, technical mentorship, prototype design, and fabrication. It also included ‘Deal Rooms’ where innovators engaged with investors and potential commercial partners.
The event’s highpoints included a live pitch session, awards presentation, an innovator-stage play, Ecolab showcase, and the presentation of patents and copyrights.