FUTA Hosts "More Than Certificate 4.0" to Highlight Youth Potential

The Technology Park and Incubation Centre (Tech-PIC) at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) hosted the 2024 edition of "More Than Certificate" on September 19, 2024, with a focus on building youth potential. The event, held at the T. I. Francis Auditorium, featured a keynote address by Mrs. Fausat Olumide, Overseeing Officer of the Engineering Material Development Institute (EDMI), Akure.

Mrs. Olumide, speaking on the topic *"Unleashing Potentials: Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders"*, emphasized the importance of empowering young people to reach their full potential, enabling them to contribute effectively to their families and society. She stated that recognizing potential requires a shift in perspective and a focus on what individuals could achieve beyond their current abilities. She also highlighted the need for inclusive education, mentorship, and innovative learning approaches.

Vice Chancellor Professor Adenike Oladiji, in her remarks, reiterated the importance of technology fairs in advancing FUTA's mandate of driving industrial transformation through research and innovation. She praised Tech-PIC for linking academia with industry to foster job creation and sustainable development.

The event also featured a pitch competition and innovation displays. Team Seven Times Bliss, with an energy beverage invention, won the top prize, followed by Team Monitro, which showcased a health monitoring device, and Team Smart Flame in third place. Representatives from the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, GIZ Nigeria, and local secondary schools were in attendance.