Osun state government has celebrated innovations and local talents in the state by creating an exhibition platform for students to showcase their technology innovations and creativity.
The exhibition took place during a Two-day exhibition and second edition of Osun State Digital Nigeria Day, with the theme – “Osun STI Expo” and tagged “Technology and creativity: Building sustainable economy with local contents” held on Tuesday at Moremi Hall in Osogbo, the state capital.
While speaking, Commissioner for Innovation, Science Technology and Digital Economy, Hon. Maruf Ayofe explained that the talent exhibition is a confirmation of the innovative spirit of Osun citizens and the celebration of upcoming inventors.
He maintained that Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun state believed so much in technology and innovations as a driver of development, which unlock opportunities that is within the state.
Hon. Ayofe also assured the participants that the government recognized their potential and is committed to supporting young minds through policies and mentorship programs.
He, however, urged all the students present, that the exhibition is not just an event but a call to action, a call to industries to collaborate with innovators, to academia and to ensure Osun remains a place of innovation and technological progress.
“This exhibition is a testament to boundless creativity and innovative spirit of our people in our dear state and celebration of creativity and ingenuity, particularly the upcoming inventors- students drawn from higher institutions of learning and individuals from diverse walks of life – who have dedicated their energy and intellect to developing solutions that can transform our economy and society.
“His Excellency extends his warm regards and unflinching support for this initiative. He believes that innovation is not just a driver of development but a key to unlocking the vast opportunities that lie within our state. Through Science, Technology, and Digital Advancement, we can address societal challenges, grow our economy, and improve the quality of life of our people.
“It is through promoting local content innovations made by our own people that we can achieve true sustainability, economic diversification, and global competitiveness. Local inventions that leverage our cultural, environmental, and economic realities are the key to reducing dependence on foreign imports, creating jobs, and fostering a resilient economy.
“To our talented inventors, you are stars of this event. Your ideas are proof that our State and Nation have what it takes to compete on the global stage. You are creators of tomorrow’s solutions, the entrepreneurs of transformative industries, and the visionaries whose work will propel us forward. The government recognizes your potential and remains committed to supporting you through policies and mentorship programs.
“This exhibition is not just an event. It is a call to action. A call to industries to collaborate with our innovators, to academia to continue driving knowledge creation, and to policymakers to ensure that our state remains a hub for innovation and technological progress”, he noted.
Earlier in her welcome address, Permanent Secretary of the Minister of Innovation Science Technology & Digital Economy, Mrs Olufunke Bukola Jolayemi, advised parents and adults to encourage the use of technology by their children in their various institutions.
“Let’s encourage students in our various institutions’ schools, churches, mosques, etc)
about technology, technology is key”, She advised
After the opening session, students from Universities and Polytechnics in Osun state showcased different technology innovations made by them, while the panelists commended and graded their innovations accordingly.
