The Research for Impact (R4i) Initiative of TETFund in collaboration with Innov8 Hub, is paving the way for innovation in Nigeria through research and development, tailored towards the Nigerian Academia.
R4i empowers members of the Nigerian Academia to transform their research findings into innovative solutions. These solutions aim to tackle critical challenges within the nation, all accomplished within a span of just 10 days.
R4i 12: A Glance at the Closing Event
On the 13th of October, 2023, the closing event for the 12th cohort of R4i was held. This event signified the culmination of the entire program. Participants, organized into 5 teams, unveiled their prototypes to the public for the very first time. In addition, there was a recap of the entire 12th cohort and its activities. This evoked a sense of nostalgia in the air.
R4i 12: The Innovative Prototypes
Distributed into 5 teams, participants of R4i 12 embarked on a journey from ideation to prototype development. This journey involved them in the intricate processes essential for creating functional prototypes. The prototypes directly addressed challenges derived from the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. At the end of R4i 12, here are the innovative prototypes that emerged:
- TEAM No Poverty: ‘AQUAPURE’ – This team devised a ceramic water-filtration system using a unique porous ceramic material that effectively filters out impurities and contaminants.
- TEAM Zero Hunger: ‘ONIONSAFE’ – Their innovation, ‘ONIONSAFE’, is a smart-technology device designed to optimize onion preservation and substantially reduce post-harvest losses.
- TEAM Good Health & Well-Being: ‘HYPROXI’ – This team developed ‘HYPROXI’, an antihypertensive instant herbal mix aimed at managing high blood pressure through a carefully crafted formula comprising selected herbs known for their remarkable therapeutic properties.
- TEAM Decent Work & Economic Growth: ‘Tour9ja’ – The ‘Tour9ja’ mobile and web application is their brainchild, aiding tourism in Nigeria by providing comprehensive information on tourist attractions while bridging the gap between tourism and Nigerian culture.
- TEAM Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure: ‘AutoSkill-Pro’ – This team created an app called ‘AutoSkill-Pro’ that establishes a platform for vehicle owners and mechanics to connect while empowering mechanics to obtain certifications and continuously refine their skills
Images from Closing Event
R4i 12: The Curtain Fall
As R4i 12 gracefully concluded, participants could reflect on their impactful journey with confidence. They no longer need to leave their ideas dormant on dusty bookshelves. They can transform these ideas into viable ventures, addressing societal challenges along the way. Thanks to TETFund and Innov8 Hub, the future of research and development in Nigeria now appears promising and secure. Innovation is on the rise, and Nigeria is at the forefront of this burgeoning movement.