From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja
The ministry of innovation Science and technology in partnership with Humanity Advancement Innovation Network ,HAIN, has launched an innovative initiative to unlock the immense potential of Nigeria’s youth.
The Minister, Chief Uche Nnaji in Abuja on Tuesday while signing the memorandum of understanding said the partnership represents a significant milestone in the journey to foster a thriving innovation ecosystem across Nigeria.
He added that the partnership aligns perfectly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in the areas of job creation, economic diversification, and inclusive development
According to the minister, the Innovative Science and Technology Programme (ISTEP) will be training and certifying 10,000 innovators across 200 local government areas in the next two years.
“It will be establishing 2,500 youth-led innovative enterprises to drive economic growth and competitiveness” he added.
“Also developing six Innovation Academies and three iSTECH City Hubs as centers of excellence in technology and innovation.
Creating 5,000 new jobs, contributing to national efforts to tackle unemployment.
He stressed that the program underscores the collective commitment to leveraging innovation and technology to address pressing challenges in key sectors such as agriculture, energy, and industrial development.
“It will enhance food security through agricultural and green innovation and
Promote inclusive economic development by fostering innovation-driven enterprises”
The minister who urged the youths to seize the opportunity added that the the future of the nation depends on their creativity, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit.
On his part, the Team lead of Humanity Advancement Innovation Network (HAIN), Daniel Olasetemi said the group will be providing a training and market for young entrepreneurs to strive.
He added that Nigeria is currently facing economic challenges due to access dependent on imported goods, saying it can only be addressed through grooming of young entrepreneurs.
