The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has received a significant boost in its commitment to nurturing innovation with the donation of a Virtual Computing Laboratory and Electronics Laboratory to the UNILAG Design Studio. The intervention came courtesy of STEMpower Inc. in partnership with DHL and SmartAID. It arrived as both equipment and hands-on knowledge transfer, ensuring that the tools are used to their fullest potential.
The gesture was facilitated by Anteneh Fisseha, Operations Manager at STEMpower Inc., alongside Merkineh Petros, ICT Manager at STEMpower Inc., both of whom travelled from Ethiopia to ensure a seamless installation and training process. Their mission is rooted in a simple but compelling belief: every child carries a scientist within, and that talent can flourish when institutions are properly equipped. By choosing the University of Lagos, STEMpower has extended its reach into one of West Africa’s most distinguished institutions that is already known for championing innovation. This will ultimately lead to creating a stronger bridge for innovation across borders.
In his remarks, Professor Theophilus Akinfenwa Fashanu, one of the Principal Investigators at the UNILAG Design Studio, reflected on the current landscape of STEM education in the region. He observed that although West Africa has made notable progress, there are still untapped opportunities that can be unlocked through deeper connection with organisations like STEMpower.
Professor Fashanu explained that by embracing this collaboration, UNILAG has once again positioned itself at the forefront of knowledge advancement. He added that the University will continue to work with dedication to ensure that the passion for STEM does not only remain alive in young Nigerians but shines brightly across the West African region.
Director of Academic Planning Unit, Professor Olusoji M. Ilori, who represented the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade T. Ogunsola, OON, FAS, expressed his delight at the initiative. He highlighted his confidence that the early exposure provided through this partnership will strengthen the foundation for future innovators.
Through the activities of the UNILAG Design Studio and other innovation and tech hubs within the University of Lagos campus, the University has systemically deepened its commitment to inclusive learning and applied creativity as these facilities have welcomed with open arms, students from non-tech backgrounds and even individuals in pursuit of knowledge from outside the University.
With this new partnership, UNILAG strengthens its role as a hub for emerging talent while expanding the tools available for students to imagine, build, and solve real problems. It also reaffirms its belief in the power of access. With every new tool, partnership and training opportunity, the University invites a broader community to discover the possibilities within science, technology and design.
The Virtual Computing and Electronics Laboratories will serve more purpose than just being equipment. They are an investment in future thinkers and creators who will shape the world with the skills they cultivate at the UNILAG Design Studio. And the Studio stands ready to welcome even more learners and creators as it continues to grow.
Author: Nike Ogunshakin
Photographer: Michael Joshua
Editor: Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem
L-R: Mr. Princewill Nwazue, Senior Assistant Registrar, Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development Services), UNILAG; Prof. Theophilus Akinfenwa Fashanu, Principal Investigator, UNILAG Design Studio; Merkineh Petros, ICT Manager, STEMpower Inc.; Professor Olusoji M. Ilori, Director, Academic Planning Unit, UNILAG; Anteneh Fisseha, Operations Manager, STEMpower Inc.; Adeleke Eniola, UNILAG Applied Physics (Electronics) undergraduate; Engr Oluwaseyi Bolarinwa, Manager, UNILAG Design Studio.
