University of Nigeria Grants N1m Seed Grants to 12 Student Research Groups
The selected groups demonstrated exceptional ideas geared towards sustainable energy and power development, which align with the goals of ACE-SPED. According to Ejiogu, these initiatives aim to lead to significant commercialization and scalable solutions to address energy and power challenges.
Binye-lum 
In a bid to foster research and innovation, the Africa Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Power Energy and Development (ACE-SPED) at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), has awarded N1 million seed grants to 12 student research groups representing various departments within the university.
Professor Emenike Ejiogu, the Director of ACE-SPED, made this announcement during a ceremony held in Nsukka, where certificates were issued and funds disbursed to the selected research groups. Ejiogu highlighted that while numerous student research groups applied for the grant, only 12 were shortlisted based on the innovative nature of their proposals, particularly focusing on innovations, entrepreneurship, and technology transfer with positive impacts on society.
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The selected groups demonstrated exceptional ideas geared towards sustainable energy and power development, which align with the goals of ACE-SPED. According to Ejiogu, these initiatives aim to lead to significant commercialization and scalable solutions to address energy and power challenges.
Furthermore, the ACE-SPED Innovation Seed Grants seek to encourage entrepreneurship and innovation across sub-Saharan Africa, providing monetary support for research efforts that align with the center's innovation objectives.
Professor Victor Aigbodion, the Industrial Liaison Officer of ACE-SPED, emphasized the six-month timeline for the research groups to deliver on their proposals. The groups are expected to produce various items, including a 1kv Solar Generator, Bio-ethanol from agro waste, and kits to Test for Ripe Watermelon, among others.
Aigbodion reassured the groups of the center's commitment to monitoring their progress and facilitating linkages with over 52 industries nationally and internationally for commercial production of their research outputs.
The 12 selected groups expressed gratitude for the opportunity to showcase their intellectual capabilities and creativity. They pledged to deliver within the stipulated timeframe and thanked the center for the grant.
This initiative highlights the University of Nigeria's dedication to promoting research, innovation, and entrepreneurship among its students, contributing to sustainable development efforts in Nigeria and beyond.
