Protocol
I am truly delighted to stand before you today, addressing this esteemed gathering
on a platform where innovative ideas flourish, and aspirations transform into reality
for our burgeoning startups. This occasion is of paramount importance as it aligns
perfectly with one of the core objectives embedded within our new Strategic Vision
Plan (SVP) for the years 2023-2025. Our primary aim is to foster the development of
cutting- edge technologies through rigorous research, thereby catalyzing sustainable
economic growth and overall development within Nigeria.
In a world where innovation is paramount, we often witness the remarkable potential
of Hackathons to showcase, fresh perspectives on existing challenges. These events
serve as instrumental tools in sustaining innovation and mobilizing the collective
intelligence of the innovators to tackle pressing real-world issues, both in the
business realm and within our social fabric.
Throughout the years, the Commission has actively promoted hackathon
competitions, each with a thematic focus aimed at addressing significant challenges
within our industries and society as a whole. Some noteworthy examples include
hackathons that yielded innovative solutions for issues such as kidnapping and
banditry, E-waste management, and strategies to mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic.
This year’s event focuses on three pivotal thematic areas, those that not only pertain
to our great nation but also resonate with global concerns.
These themes are:
- Blockchain-enabled Data Protection Solutions for Enhancing Regulatory
Compliance, - Assistive Technology Solutions for the Elderly and People with Disabilities,
- Technology Solutions for Renewable Energy in Rural Areas
Consequently, I am happy to announce that this Talent Hunt Research through
Hackathon is just the inception of the Commission’s unwavering commitment to
nurturing innovation and nascent ideas. The culmination of this competition is not
confined to the grand prize of Ten Million Naira (N10,000,000.00) awarded to each
winner from these three thematic areas for the development of their solutions, but
goes beyond this, as the Commission takes a holistic approach to support these
promising innovations. We closely monitor the progress of these solutions as they
evolve into full-fledged prototypes.
The Hackathon will be preceded by an Incubation and Mentorship Programme,
which will be designed to equip startups, innovators and tech entrepreneurs with the
necessary skills to refine their ideas. This phase encompasses critical aspects such
as determining product-market fit, navigating intellectual property challenges, and
constructing robust business plans. Additionally, it offers us the opportunity to gauge
the impact that these grants and prizes have had on the beneficiaries and the
industry.
The journey does not end here. The next stage involves the Adoption of Digital
Innovative Services and Products stemming from the Hackathons. In this initiative,
our Commission takes the lead in sponsoring the deployment of the finalized
products within select government agencies and institutions. It is with great pride that
I inform you that, thus far, we have successfully adopted all three winning solutions
from the 2020 Hackathon. These solutions were meticulously crafted to combat
pandemics and epidemics that threatened our nation.
The first solution, Klasconnect, is an e-learning marvel that fortifies the interaction
between instructors and students. Our Commission has spearheaded its
implementation in six government schools, strategically located across the six
geopolitical zones of our nation.
The second solution, an Automated Temperature Scanner with Contact Tracing
Capability, now graces the Commission’s library, serving as a beacon of advanced
technology in our institution.
Lastly, we have the SmartClinic, a versatile mobile and web solution that seamlessly
connects patients through a mobile health app with a Hospital Information
Management System (HIMS). This innovation boasts an array of features, including
COVID-19 self-assessment, hospital registration through the app, instant
consultation options encompassing chat, voice, and video, and comprehensive
documentation by doctors. In another remarkable achievement, our Commission has
facilitated the
deployment of this solution to four teaching hospitals and two state- owned hospitals
across the six geopolitical zones of our nation.
In conclusion, our commitment to fostering innovation and driving positive change
through hackathons and related initiatives remains unwavering. The transformative
power of innovation knows no bounds, and together, we will continue to explore
uncharted territories, seek groundbreaking solutions, and ultimately, contribute to the
progress and prosperity of our great nation.
Thank you for your attention, and I eagerly anticipate witnessing the remarkable
innovations that will emerge from this year’s Hackathon. Together, let us embark on
a journey of innovation and transformation that will reshape our future for the better.
Thank you,
Engr. Ubale Maska, Executive Commissioner Technical Services
