NASENI Launches Hackathon for Young Innovators in Nigeria

The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has called on young Nigerian innovators to develop practical solutions to the country's challenges. Khalil Halilu, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NASENI, made this appeal as 60 innovators from Nigeria's six geopolitical zones began the virtual hackathon phase of the FutureMakers by NASENI innovation programme on August 17, 2023.

The initiative aims to transition Nigeria from a consumer economy to a producer economy by empowering youth to create solutions for local issues. The hackathon, running until August 20, focuses on regional challenges, with specific cohorts addressing gender barriers, food security, conflict solutions, education costs, academia-industry connections, and child trading issues.

Participants will receive mentorship and technical guidance, leading to FutureMakers Pitch Sessions from August 24 to 26, where they will present their solutions. The top three innovators from each zone will receive cash prizes, with a grand prize of N5 million at the NASENI Invention Fest.