The Research for Impact Initiative (R4i) 6.0, Nigeria’s foremost initiative in research, development, and innovation, came to an end on June 16, 2023, at Innov8 Hub.
R4i is an initiative of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) in collaboration with Innov8 Hub. Members of Nigerian academia from public institutions are the target of the initiative, which aims to foster innovation, research, and development.
R4i Triple Helix Synergy: Team Sharing
During the 11-day program, participants actively engaged in fundamental courses and processes that equipped them with the necessary skills to transform research findings into innovative solutions.Shared into 4 teams, participants took on societal challenges in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These teams included:
- Team Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
- Team Good Health & Well-being
- Team Clean Water & Sanitation
- Team Life on Land
These teams developed prototypes in line with the SDGs addressed.
R4i Triple Helix Synergy: Closing Event
At the closing event, officials from the government, academia, and captains of industry were all present. Their attendance confirms the advancement of the Triple Helix Synergy in Nigeria.
The Triple Helix Synergy is a concept that describes the mutually beneficial relationship between government, academia, and industry. It is a key driver of innovation and economic growth.
The representative of the Executive Secretary of TETFund, Dr. Salihu Bakari, lauded the progress of the R4i Initiative. He also intimated the audience on the philosophies and projections of TETFund in relation to research and development in Nigeria.
In his words: “Our collaboration with Innov8 Hub will help us bring the needs of the society and the needs of the industry to the doorstep of the academia for solutions.”
The Director of Research and Development, TETFund, also stated: “We no longer fund research for research, we have to do research for impact.”
The Pitch Premiere
At R4i 6.0, the 4 teams premiered pitch videos of their prototypes to guests in attendance.
Team Good Health & Well-being developed iDetect23. The automated over-speed detector and recorder is an innovation that utilizes a real-time operating system. It sends data to the relevant authorities via a secure IoT platform.
Team Life on Land developed i-Gel 23. This innovation is a reusable multipurpose device. It has the capacity of harvesting, storing, and releasing atmospheric water directly to the roots of plants.
Team Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure developed Jollyfryer. This innovation aids the production of Garri by eliminating the need for sieving prior to frying. It also harnesses the power of solar energy and gas heating.
Team Clean Water and Sanitation developed Water 23. The innovation can be operated without access to electricity. It is designed to detect and eliminate waterborne pathogens and reduce health-related issues associated with contaminated water.
R4i: The Ripple Effect
The Research for Impact initiative continues to strengthen the Triple Helix Synergy among the government, academia, and industry.