In a move poised to shape the future of education and entrepreneurship in Africa, the NOUN-ACETEL e-Learning Conference and Exhibition sparked a wave of transformative thinking with its flagship Pitch Competition.
The competition, which was part of key activities at the e-Learning Conference and Exhibition, showcased groundbreaking innovations and provided a platform for budding entrepreneurs to launch solutions that could redefine digital learning and business practices across the continent.
Eight participants vied for top honors by presenting unique business ideas that addressed pressing issues in health, technology, and education, with each project demonstrating practical approaches to solving real-world problems, drawing the attention of stakeholders eager to support.
The competition concluded with three outstanding entrepreneurs receiving top accolades. Busari Idayat Abolannle clinched the first prize of N250,000 for her project, Hadheal Nutritional Services, which promotes community health through innovative nutritional solutions.
Obioma-Henry Precious Chinaza took the second prize with Diverse Health Initiative, a venture aimed at expanding access to healthcare, while Uchenna Kelechi’s Nigenius secured third place, focusing on enhancing digital skills for underserved communities.
The participants expressed immense gratitude for the platform and support provided by NOUN and ACETEL.
Busari Idayat, the first-place winner, noted that the competition gave her project visibility and opened doors she didn’t think was possible adding that the support and encouragement from the judges and mentors have been invaluable.
Similarly, Obioma-Henry Chinaza emphasized the potential of her project, stating that through this initiative, I hope to bridge the healthcare gap in remote communities as it wasn’t just about winning for personal gain but a victory for those who need these services the most.
“The mentorship and exposure have been incredible. This recognition will help scale Nigenius and equip more young Nigerians with the digital skills needed to thrive in the modern economy.” Uchenna Kelechi, who placed third, added.
According to the moderator of the pitch competition, the Director of DE&GS NOUN, Dr. Samuel Awolumate “The e-learning conference and exhibition shows the importance of investing in young talent and nurturing a culture of innovation.”
“By providing participants with not just monetary rewards but also mentorship through the NOUN Entrepreneurship Incubation Programme, the event has set the stage for these innovators to refine their ideas, attract investors, and make a lasting impact.”
The conference also included an exhibition segment featuring entrepreneurs and innovators who displayed a range of products and services.
One notable exhibitor was Timothy Manasseh Garbuwa from the North East 2 Incubation Centre, Bogoro, Bauchi, with his product MONTEA — a Moringa-based nutritional tea blend infused with ginseng and ginger.
The tea, which promotes increased energy levels, improved brain function, and numerous health benefits, drew considerable interest from attendees seeking natural wellness solutions.
Garbuwa shared his excitement saying the exposure at the exhibition was phenomenal as people had shown interest in his locally produced MONTEA.
Another standout exhibitor, Garba Isa, presented his KUJURU Coiling Device (KCD), designed for efficient coil rewinding for motorcycles, tricycles, and other electrical appliances.
By repurposing components from non-serviceable electrical equipment, the KCD reduces production costs and optimizes resources — a key innovation that has the potential to revolutionize local manufacturing processes.
Isa commented: “Being part of this exhibition has allowed me to connect with other innovators and showcase how indigenous technology can solve everyday problems. I believe we are at the beginning of something great.”
Director of ACETEL Prof. Grace Jokthan, commended the participants for their creativity and resilience, stating that the exhibition and pitch competition is a platform to give young entrepreneurs the tools they need to succeed.
“The future of Africa’s development hinges on harnessing these bright minds and equipping them to solve our continent’s unique challenges.” She added.
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