UNILAG launches Innovation to Market, provides robust learning resources
By David Awoyemi
The University of Lagos has launched a project Innovation to Market (I2M) and also provided a robust learning resources, integrated support system for sustainable innovation ecosystem in Nigeria, in order to unlock the potential of countless innovators.
The project was unveiled at the University, The Faculty of Social Science New Auditorium, focused on empowering innovators and researchers in Nigeria to take their innovative products to the market; as well as provide the support needed to create and commercialise innovations that solve societal problems.
The University of Lagos, Vice Chancellor, Professor Folashade Tolulope Ogunsola FAS said, “I2M will be a catalyst for change, unlocking the potential of countless innovators and revolutionising industries across the board and making Nigeria a net-producing economy.”
The VC also noted that the project is designed to address the challenges of innovations and translation of research works in Nigeria.
Meanwhile, the project prioritises innovations from Nigerian youths, women, and persons with disability (PWD).
According to Ogunsola, “Project Innovation to Market, I2M, recognises the importance of sustainability and inclusivity in the innovation ecosystem, as it aims to foster projects that have the potential to address pressing societal challenges while creating a positive impact, encouraging participants to develop solutions that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the Nations challenges, as this program paves the way for innovations, not only to drive economic growth but also contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future.
“It is expected to bridge the gap between researchers and the market place, by managing innovations from the idea stage to its commercialisation.
“Together, we can cultivate a thriving innovation ecosystem that drives economic growth, improves lives, and shapes a better future for all,” she concluded.
Meanwhile, Ogunsola thanked the project sponsor RISA (Research & Innovation Systems for Africa and UKAID, and implored “everyone to join in these remarkable journey, Whether you are an innovator, investor, industry expert, or simply someone passionate about fostering change, your involvement and support will play a crucial role in making Project Innovation to Market a resounding success.”
While commenting at the event, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ayodele Atsenuwa explained that the project will also create a self-sustaining incubator program for innovators that will want to take their products to market via a startup, as well as expose them to trainings to create bankable businesses that can attract big investments.
She affirmed that the Innovation and Technology Management Office would deploy resources such that innovations can be nurtured until they are ready for the market.
The Director, Innovation and Technology Management Office (ITMO), Dr. Abiodun Gbenga-Ilori, also stated the factors affecting the conversion of research to innovation in Nigeria including limited access to capital for prototyping; inadequate access to machinery and laboratory equipment; slow intellectual property protection; limited access to market and industry linkages among others.
According to Dr. Gbenga-Ilori who is also the Project lead highlighted some benefits of the project, and its strategic plans, as she further explained that I2M seeks to improve the national innovation ecosystem by creating pathways for innovations to get to the market and benefit the society.
The hybrid event also featured a panel discussion on ‘Strengthening the Nigerian Innovation Ecosystem’ which was moderated by the Director of the Entrepreneurship and Skill Development Centre, Prof. Sunday Adebisi. The panel included Founder, Future Africa, Iyinoluwa Aboyeji; Executive Director, FATE Foundation, Adenike Adeyemi; Google Director, West Africa, Juliet Ehimuan; Pioneer Head UNILAG Innovation Unit, Hakeem Amuda; Executive Secretary, Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, Teju Abisoye and Founder, Ground Breakers, Ian Barker.
