In a showcase of creativity and problem-solving skills, students of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) shone brightly at the Studentpreneur Talent Hunt, an entrepreneurial competition organized by the Centre for Entrepreneurship (CENT).
The event, held on Thursday, December 18, 2024, witnessed groundbreaking ideas rewarded with substantial cash prizes, underscoring the university’s commitment to fostering innovation and self-reliance among students.
The grand prize of ₦2 million was clinched by Clean Cook, a revolutionary cooking stove designed to get combine heat efficiency with waste-to-energy electricity conversion. Developed by a team led by Victoria Oduniyi, alongside Oyedeji David and Temigbe Oluwakayowa, all 400-level students of Information and Communication Engineering, and Augustine Omolade, a 400-level Electrical and Electronics Engineering student, the innovative product stood out among 19 competing entries. Explaining the invention, Oduniyi noted, “The Clean Cook Stove is built from recycled metal scraps with attention to durability and affordability. It is equipped with thermoelectric technologies, allowing users to charge their devices while cooking. Its clean combustion design drastically reduces smoke emissions, promoting better health and environmental sustainability.” She further emphasized the stove’s potential to address critical issues such as high energy costs, health risks from traditional cooking methods, and energy accessibility gaps.
Other notable projects also received accolades. Kindle Recycling Hub, developed by 400-level student Shittu Kehinde, won the first runner-up prize of ₦1.5 million for its efficient waste collection solution, while Vamoose, the second runner-up, received ₦1 million for its impactful idea. Additionally, ten other contestants were awarded ₦20,000 each as consolation prizes for their impressive efforts.
Speaking at the event, the Director of CENT, Professor Abosede Daramola, highlighted the purpose of the competition: “The FUTA CENT Talent Hunt aims to identify students with innovative business ideas, assist in incubating these ideas, and provide sponsorship to help them thrive within and beyond FUTA. This initiative creates job opportunities for students both during and after their academic journey.” Professor Daramola reaffirmed the center’s commitment to equipping students and staff with practical skills and entrepreneurial training aligned with FUTA’s mandate of self-reliance. She extended gratitude to the university’s management for its unwavering support and praised the panel of judges, which included distinguished figures such as Ms. Adaora Ikenza, Prince Ikumola of SMEDAN, and Mrs. Bukola Adebowale of Sterling Bank, among others.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adenike Oladiji, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Taiwo Amos, described the event as a celebration of FUTA’s dynamic and talented student community. “This competition goes beyond showcasing skills; it highlights the essence of education as a tool to nurture multifaceted talent. Events like this ignite the entrepreneurial spirit, inspiring students to pursue innovative ventures,” he remarked.
The success of the Studentpreneur Talent Hunt underscores FUTA’s dedication to fostering creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship, preparing its students to lead and excel in a rapidly evolving world.
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