Today, at the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) head office located at Plot 423 Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja, Engr. Ubale Maska, Executive Commissioner Technical Services, addressed a distinguished audience at the NCC 2023 Talent Hunt Research through Hackathon event.
This event aligns seamlessly with the core objectives of the NCC’s new Strategic Vision Plan (SVP) for the years 2023-2025, which aims to catalyze sustainable economic growth and overall development in Nigeria by fostering cutting-edge technologies through rigorous research.
Hackathons have proven to be instrumental in showcasing fresh perspectives on existing challenges, sustaining innovation, and mobilizing collective intelligence. The NCC has actively promoted hackathon competitions with thematic focuses, addressing significant challenges in various industries, such as kidnapping and banditry, E-waste management, and strategies to mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic.
This year’s event centers around three pivotal thematic areas, including:
- Blockchain-enabled Data Protection Solutions for Enhancing Regulatory Compliance.
- Assistive Technology Solutions for the Elderly and People with Disabilities.
- Technology Solutions for Renewable Energy in Rural Areas.
The Talent Hunt Research through Hackathon is not only about the grand prize of Ten Million Naira (N10,000,000.00) awarded to winners from these three thematic areas but extends to ongoing support for these promising innovations as they evolve into full-fledged prototypes.
Following the Hackathon, an Incubation and Mentorship Program will equip startups, innovators, and tech entrepreneurs with critical skills to refine their ideas. It also provides an opportunity to evaluate the impact of grants and prizes on beneficiaries and the industry.
The next phase involves the Adoption of Digital Innovative Services and Products emerging from the Hackathons. The NCC leads in sponsoring the deployment of winning solutions within select government agencies and institutions, with successful past deployments in combatting pandemics and epidemics.
Among these successful deployments are Klasconnect, an e-learning platform implemented in six government schools; an Automated Temperature Scanner with Contact Tracing Capability; and the SmartClinic, a versatile mobile and web solution used in teaching hospitals and state-owned hospitals.
Engr. Ubale Maska, Executive Commissioner Technical Services, affirmed the NCC’s commitment to fostering innovation and driving positive change through hackathons and related initiatives. He emphasized the transformative power of innovation and the collective pursuit of groundbreaking solutions to contribute to Nigeria’s progress and prosperity.
As the NCC embarks on this year’s Hackathon, the anticipation is high for the remarkable innovations that will emerge. Together, they aim to reshape the future for the better.