By Isaac Lewu

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole (SAN), has called on students to take proactive roles in finding solutions that benefit both the University and the wider society. He further emphasised the importance of innovation in addressing contemporary challenges and encouraged students to harness their creativity and academic knowledge to develop sustainable solutions that contribute positively to their community and beyond.

Prof. Egbewole, who made these remarks penultimate Wednesday (June 26, 2024) at the Late Professor O. O. Akinkugbe Annual Award For Best Student Innovator Order of Exhibition Programme, emphasised the importance of constant innovation to achieve the institution’s ambitious Vision 1:10:500.

The Vice Chancellor, who was represented at the event by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research Technology and Innovation), Prof. Adegboyega Adisa Fawole, highlighted the significance of continuous improvement, urging the students not to settle for current achievements but rather to actively seek new ways to tackle existing challenges within and outside the University community. He further underscored the need for the students to engage in problem-solving initiatives that could reposition the University and contribute positively to the society at large.

Prof. Egbewole also highlighted the escalating cost of electricity bills from IBEDC, and expressed the University’s commitment to exploring sustainable alternatives aimed at reducing the high operational costs associated with power consumption within the University environment.

The Vice Chancellor encouraged the students to cultivate a mindset of innovation and entrepreneurship. He pointed out that fostering a culture of innovation among students is essential for driving meaningful change and addressing pertinent issues faced in the country.

Prof. Egbewole said that the University of Ilorin remains dedicated to supporting initiatives that promote sustainable development and innovation, aiming to achieve tangible outcomes that benefit both the institution and the society as a whole.

In his welcome address, the Chairperson of the Organising Committee, Prof. Uade Sam Ugbomoiko, set the stage for this year’s student presentation by ensuring fairness so that the student with the best innovation emerges.

Prof. Ugbomoiko emphasised the importance of presenting their best work.  He assured all participants that their involvement in the event would be formally recognised, reinforcing the committee’s commitment to inclusivity and recognition of student efforts.

The competition carries substantial rewards for the winners, with cash prizes set to be awarded during the upcoming convocation ceremony. Alongside the cash prize, the first and second runners-up will also receive recognition for their outstanding performances.

A panel of six assessors were selected, comprising of Prof. Sunday Aderibigbe, Prof. A. Abdulrahman, Prof. Rasheedat Ayanniyi , Prof. T. K.  Ajiboye , Dr. O. K. Yusuf, and Dr. Halimat Babamale.

At the end of the assessments, Mustapha Ahmed, a student from the Faculty of Engineering, clinched the top prize in the contest with his groundbreaking creation, “LAILAH: An Assistant for the Special Needs Community”.

Afolabi Akindele, representing the Faculty of Education, secured the first runner-up position with his insightful presentation on the Internet of Things (IoT), showcasing its potential in modern education systems.

A collaborative effort by Ajibade Qawiyu, Olawuyi Oluwatimileyin, and Sanusi Taiwo from the Faculty of Engineering, who developed a virtual workshop tool, earned  the second runner-up spot. Their project highlighted the importance of technology in facilitating interactive learning environments.

The competition, which featured 14 contestants from diverse academic backgrounds, underscored the university’s commitment to fostering innovation and address societal challenges through student-led initiatives. Also present at the event were the Deans of Engineering and Technology, Prof. Jamiu Kolawole Odusote; the Dean of Education, Prof. L. A. Yahaya and students and staff members of various Faculties.