AKINWALE ABOLUWADE
There was excitement as some secondary schools drawn from four regions of the federation, showcased diverse talents by producing solutions like solar-powered refrigerators and smart fire extinguishers under the 234 Innov8 Challenge 2.0 held recently in parts of the country.
The 234 Innov8 Challenge, among others, was powered by The 234 Project, a brainchild of Mobolaji Sokunbi and Akin Akinboro, to foster resilience, creativity and excellence among the Nigerian youth.
In the secondary school students’ category, the wining team in the South-South is Methodist Senior Science School, Oron, Akwa Ibom State with Project Title, ‘Smart Pump, Generator and Change-Over Control System.’
For North-East, students of Government Day Secondary School, Abbagana Terah in Borno State won with Project Title, ‘Solar-powered Refrigerator.’ St. Thomas Aquinas College, Akure led withProject Title, ‘Automatic Fire Cure and Internet Booster.’ In the South-East, St. Charles College, Onitsha, Anambra State took the lead withProject Title, ‘Water Purificator.’
In an interview with journalists, the Programmes Manager, The 234 Project, Ifeoluwa Oyebisi, said that “In Q1 2024, The 234 Project experienced exponential growth and success, underpinned by our mission to transform minds and unlock potential. The 234 Project fosters resilience, creativity and excellence among Nigeria’s youth.”
The NGO disclosed that it reached a total 10,500 young Nigerians in Q1.
On some of the remarkable feats made by the NGO in the past three months, Oyebisi said, “Our initiatives reached significant milestones in Q1 2024. The 234 Community Impact Challenge empowered Nigerian tertiary students to address community challenges through innovative solutions. With 250 entries spanning 33 states, participants showcased their problem-solving abilities, embodying our commitment to nurturing proactive citizenship.
“Under the 234 Innov8 Challenge 2.0, we partnered with PearMonie and four regional NGOs to reach 10,000 secondary school students nationwide. In Borno, Ondo, Anambra and Akwa-Ibom states, students demonstrated ingenuity, developing solutions like Solar Powered Refrigerators and Smart Fire Extinguishers, contributing to local development through the 234 Innov8 Challenge 2.0.
“In the 234 Buzz Challenge 2.0, recognizing the importance of communication skills inspired young Nigerians in eight states to enhance their communication prowess. The winner, a student of Obafemi Awolowo University, received a Samsung Galaxy Note 8.
“Under the 234 SkillUp 1.0: With over 90 applicants, free remote training were provided in SPSS software, equipping young people with valuable data analysis skills essential for their professional development.
“Through the 234 Data for Learning Challenge, we distributed 150GB of data to 18 young Nigerians, ensuring access to online learning resources amidst digital disparities.”
She added that “These accomplishments underscores the NGO’s dedication to unlocking the potential of Nigeria’s youth and building a progressive nation.
“We extend our gratitude to our donors, volunteers and community partners for their unwavering support and we remain committed to achieving even greater milestones in the future.”
