NCC Commits To Fortifying The Bridge Between Tech Hubs And The Telecom Industry As Talent Hunt Research Through Hackathon Ends

By Angeline Mgbele, Bureau Chief, North

Telecommunications regulator, the Nigerian Communications Commission(NCC) has communicated its resolve in building and strengthening the bridge between technology hubs and the telecommunications industry.  This is the crux of the welcome address by the Director Research And Development Department, NCC, Alhaji Ismail Adedigba at the closing ceremony of the 2023 NCC Talent Hunt Research Through Hackathon, on  Thursday,  October 26, 2023.

Alhaji Adedigba said the diversity of  participants, hailing from various Geopolitical Zones, exemplified their  unwavering commitment to fostering innovation and expansion within the ICT industry.

His address reads in part: “I would also like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the young innovators who have been selected to participate in this highly competitive project, the Hackathon. We have every confidence that you have brought forth a plethora of creative solutions, and we eagerly anticipate the outstanding commercializable prototypes that will emerge from your endeavours.

“We find ourselves in an era marked by rapid change, driven incessantly by innovation and technology. I am deeply convinced that events like this innovative Hackathon, if held regularly, offers us invaluable opportunities to unearth and adapt to new technologies. These adaptations will equip us to effectively navigate the ever-evolving landscape and surmount the current and future challenges facing not only our industries but also our broader societal spheres.

“It is imperative to acknowledge that our young innovators have a pivotal role to play in addressing existing industrial challenges and formulating technology-driven solutions that yield tangible social impact.

“Innovation in Communication Technologies stands as the driving force behind the very essence of the Telecommunication industry today. Technology has emerged as the catalyst that unleashes unprecedented potential in ways we could scarcely fathom. Consequently, the advancement of the Telecommunication sector, and doing so in a manner that is sustainable and ethical, should be a collective concern for all of us. The rate of growth experienced by the Telecom sector, thanks to innovative research, is nothing short of enviable. It is essential that the vision of the Commission for this Competition resonates profoundly with all stakeholders in general and accelerating our collective prosperity through technical efficiency agenda of the Honorable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy.

“In conclusion, ladies and gentlemen, success is often the outcome of a harmonious blend of talent, willpower, and hard work. I would like to conclude this welcome address by reiterating our unwavering commitment to building and strengthening the bridge between Tech Hubs and the Telecom industry. We will persistently encourage innovative research that not only mirrors global innovations but also tailors them to local contexts.”

Key highlights of the event , Cyber Era NG learns, reveal there were 81 entries, from which 12 were shortlisted to participate in the tech innovation contest.

Out of the 12 shortlisted, 3 emerged as winners from three thematic focus below:

• In the Blockchain Solution category, Know-NowLimited emerged winner with N10m prize
• In the Renewable Energy Solutions category, Solaris GreenTech Hub, emerged the winner with N10m prize
• In the Assistive Technology Solutions category, Spex Care Limited emerged winner with N10m prize

The remaining 9 innovators from the 12 were given N500,000 consolation prize each with certificate of commendation for their participation in the annual contest hosted  by the Commission.

The Chairman, Panel of Judges for the Hackathon, Prof. Mohammed Hajiya, announced the winners at the event.

He also commended the Commission for promoting technology innovation, applauded the winners and other innovators who participated and encouraged them to contribute to leveraging their solutions to develop Nigerian economy.