R4i 8.0 Recap: The Research for Impact Initiative (R4i) is revolutionizing research, development, and innovation in Nigeria through the collaboration between TETFund and Innov8 Hub. This initiative has empowered members of the Nigerian Academia from various tertiary institutions across the country to develop innovative prototypes.
At R4i 8.0, 18 participants were nominated from Polytechnics across Nigeria’s geo-political zones. They underwent rigorous processes and procedures at Innov8 Hub, which were essential in converting research into tangible innovations.
At R4i 8.0, the facilitators divided participants into 4 teams, with each team dedicated to addressing crucial societal challenges. These teams included:
No Poverty
Good Health and Well-Being
Quality Education
Affordable and Clean Energy
R4i 8.0 Recap: The Closing Event
The closing event of R4i 8.0 witnessed the presence of members from the Government, Academia, and Industry. Among them were the Executive Secretaries of TETFund and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Architect Sonny S.T Echono and Prof. Idris Muhammad Bugaje, respectively.
Architect Sonny S.T Echono, the Executive Secretary of TETFund, expressed his delight at the progress made through the R4i Initiative. He emphasized the need for a change in mindset, urging the adoption of time-tested techniques and sustainable strategies for economic growth, anchored on production.
Similarly, Prof. Idris Muhammad Bugaje, the Executive Secretary of NBTE, praised the collaborative spirit of the R4i Initiative. He emphasized the significance of teamwork and highlighted that major innovations in modern science and technology have always been the result of collective efforts.
The climax of the event was the premiere of pitch videos showcasing the prototypes developed by each team:
TEAM No Poverty presented Digifact, a digital data-collecting platform designed for teachers. This innovation has the potential to empower educators, increasing their earnings, and reducing poverty among low-income teachers.
Team Good Health and Well-Being created Skinchek, a skin moisture detector created to identify moisture-associated skin disorders, promoting better health and well-being.
The Quality Education Team unveiled LECTUREAID. This innovation is an education platform for displaying teaching materials and conducting practical activities, enhancing the overall quality of education.
TEAM Affordable and Clean Energy presented GreenRadiant. This innovation represents a solar IOT-based micro-grid system designed for smart energy control and consumption management.
The collaboration between TETFund and Innov8 Hub has reintroduced research and development through innovation to Nigeria. This collaboration, focused on the academia, has also strengthened the Triple Helix Synergy, bringing together the Government, Academia, and Industry for a brighter and more innovative future.