The Yaba College of Technology (Yabatech) has secured a major boost for innovation and sustainability, as two of its staff members won TETFund/National Research Fund grants worth over ₦62.9 million for transformative projects.
The announcement was made on Monday in a statement by the Deputy Registrar, Centre for Information, Communication and Public Relations, Mr. Adekunle Adams, who reaffirmed Yabatech’s reputation as Nigeria’s leading hub for technological innovation and applied research.
According to Adams, Dr. Emodi Izuchukwu of the School of Art, Design and Printing received ₦24.1 million for a pioneering project on marine pollution and the blue economy. His initiative, Transforming Marine Pollution into Art, seeks to creatively convert marine waste into artworks, promoting environmental sustainability while advancing maritime opportunities for inclusive growth and cultural renewal.
Izuchukwu will lead a multidisciplinary team comprising Chinyere Ndubuisi, Emmanuel Irokanulo, Florence Nweke, and Adenike Ezeagwu to explore innovative methods of turning marine waste into valuable assets.
In addition, Dr. Akin Olaleru of the School of Engineering received ₦38.8 million for groundbreaking research on hybrid perovskite semiconductors to advance efficient photovoltaic devices. Alongside his co-researchers, Olufunke Oyebamiji, Olasoji Adekoya, and Matthew Solomon, Olaleru aims to accelerate Nigeria’s solar power sector through clean energy and sustainable technology research.
“These landmark awards highlight Yabatech’s growing influence in tackling global challenges through sustainability and technological innovation,” Adams said, stressing the importance of applied research in driving national development, industry transformation, and environmental protection.
Congratulating the beneficiaries, the college management said the recognition underscores Yabatech’s vision and commitment to research that delivers practical solutions to real-world problems.
“With these grants, Yabatech continues to lead transformative research that impacts society, industry, and the environment,” Adams added, affirming the institution’s resolve to shape Nigeria’s future through innovation, creativity, and groundbreaking scientific exploration.
