NASENI Challenges Youths to Create Local Tech Solutions

The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has called on young Nigerian innovators to create and defend homegrown technology solutions addressing community challenges. Khalil Halilu, Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NASENI, made this statement as 60 innovators commenced live pitch sessions during FutureMakers Week.

These innovators transitioned from developing prototypes in a four-day hackathon held from August 17 to 20 to presenting their solutions publicly. The pitch sessions, which began on Monday and will run through Thursday, August 27, are being streamed on various social media platforms.

NASENI will reward the top three innovators with cash prizes of N1.5 million, N1 million, and N500,000, respectively. The six zonal winners will compete for a N5 million grand prize at the NASENI Invention Fest.

Additionally, the overall winner will receive a fully funded international study tour and scholarships to two leading Nigerian universities. The program aims to foster practical responses to community issues, with innovations including an AI-powered learning platform and an emergency alert device.