STEM Investments Key to Nigeria Industrial Growth, Says Innovia Labs CEO
Funmi Ogundare
The Chief Executive Officer of Innovia Labs, Durojaiye Phillips, yesterday called on the government to implement policies and make investments that will promote education and career development in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
He emphasised the importance of enabling and encouraging individuals to apply their skills within the country.
Phillips made this appeal during a press conference held in Lagos to unveil the top 16 institutions selected for the inaugural University Duel and Smart Challenge, organised by Just Media.
Participating institutions include the University of Lagos, Lagos State University, Covenant University, Obafemi Awolowo University (Ife), University of Ilorin, Bells University (Ota), University of Nigeria (UNN), University of Benin, Kaduna State University, Achievers University (Owo), Federal University of Technology (FUTA, Akure), Yaba College of Technology, Ladoke Akintola University (Oyo), and Olabisi Onabanjo University (Ago-Iwoye). Forty-eight students from these institutions will compete in Mathematics, Data Analytics, Verbal Reasoning, and General Knowledge.
Speaking as one of the judges for the competition, Phillips highlighted the need for STEM companies to establish themselves in Nigeria to create opportunities for local talent.
According to him, “There is currently insufficient investment in STEM. With more funding, we can encourage people not just to learn, but to utilise their skills effectively. For instance, chemical engineers should work locally to develop drugs and solutions for Nigeria. Aeronautic engineers should design aircraft for Nigerians, while mechanical engineers should contribute to the local manufacturing sector.”
He expressed optimism that the competition would inspire students to develop practical solutions to benefit the Nigerian economy.
Dr. Ore Sofekun, CEO of Foothold Advisors and a consultant for the University Duel and Smart Challenge 2024/2025, described the initiative as a platform for undergraduate students to showcase their STEM knowledge and apply it to real-world challenges.
“We believe this platform will help students recognise their ability to use what they’re learning today for the betterment of society,” she said.
She added that each university team is required to propose innovative solutions for problems within their communities.
The selection process began in February 2024 with 50 universities participating in a nationwide Computer-Based Test (CBT). Top-performing students were ranked and grouped into four categories-premier universities (the oldest institutions), federal universities, state universities, and private universities.
The competition officially kicked off on November 18 with the round of 16, which will be recorded over three days. The quarter-finals are scheduled for November 22, with playback beginning in January 2025.
Sofekun explained that after the top three universities are chosen, teams will have three months to develop additional solutions. The finals of both the quiz and the smart challenge will take place between February and March 2025.
She emphasised on the importance of supporting young innovators, saying: “It’s crucial that organisations provide opportunities for youths to develop their ideas and showcase their potential.”
