Science Granting Councils Initiative Launches at Innov8 Hub

Eighteen Nigerian lecturers are celebrating a major achievement after being awarded a $250,000 grant from the Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI). This exciting development comes after their participation at the Research for Impact Research for Impact Initiative (R4i) initiative, a collaborative effort between TETFund and Innov8 Hub.

The SGCI is a multi-funded program that strengthens research and development (R&D) capabilities across sub-Saharan Africa. This initiative empowers these councils to bolster their respective national innovation ecosystems.

Award-Winning Innovations

The 18 beneficiaries, divided into four teams, received invaluable support from Innov8 Hub’s technical specialists. Their hard work resulted in the creation of four exciting prototypes:

i-Gel: This reusable, multipurpose device harvests atmospheric water, stores it, and then releases it directly to plant roots.
Jollyfryer: Jollyfryer features a heat exchanger and insulated chamber, leading to a more efficient and improved frying process.
Water 23: This innovation offers a solution for eliminating waterborne pathogens without relying on electricity. Water 23 can significantly reduce health problems associated with contaminated water.
Airvolt: This budget-friendly wind turbine generates electricity, providing users with control, extended operation, and impressive durability.

Hope for the Future

The SGCI Launch Event in Abuja marked a momentous occasion. Deputy General Manager of Innov8 Hub, Mr. Deji Ige, emphasized the event’s significance, highlighting “the power of foresight, commitment, and collaboration.” He acknowledged the transformative role of TETFund’s R4i and TETFAIR initiatives, which have shifted the focus of Nigerian academia towards research with real-world applications, venture creation, and impactful solutions. Mr. Ige also praised TETFund’s leadership and described Innov8 Hub as the “oil that fuels the lamp” in this collaborative effort. He underscored TETFund’s vital role as a champion of national development and a guiding light for Nigerian academics.

A Transformative Partnership

TETFund’s Director of Research and Development, Dr. Salihu Bakari Girei, expressed his enthusiasm about Nigeria’s participation in the SGCI program. While Nigeria joined in 2020, Dr. Girei emphasized the program’s transformative potential.

The $250,000 grant will support four Nigerian research teams, each developing projects of immense potentials. This funding bridges the gap between research and practical application, fostering the commercialization of these promising innovations.

Stay tuned for updates on the first week-long bootcamp of the Science Granting Councils Initiative, scheduled to take place at Innov8 Hub. This initiative marks a significant step forward for Nigerian innovation, and the future looks bright!