Nigeria shines at world’s largest Science and Engineering fair in USA

Nigeria’s representatives at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) held in Phoenix, US have clinched the United Technology Company (UTC) Award for Excellence in Science and Engineering. The duo of Duro-Aina Adebola and Zainab Bello from Doregos Private Academy Iyana Ipaja, Lagos invented a urine-powered generator to win the award and prize money of US$3000 in scholarship.

The award-winning invention seeks to provide affordable and sustainable energy sources as a solution to the epileptic power supply in developing countries without the attendant consequences caused by carbon monoxide poisoning.

According to the students’ teacher who supervised the invention and accompanied them on the trip, Oluseyi Lawal, “The project works on the principle of electrolysis and energy conversion. It works like the conventional generator; the direct current output of the generator is connected to the urine electrolytic cell to ensure continuous production of the hydrogen-oxygen which ensures the continuous running of the engine”.

Lawal added that, “the generator is environmental friendly. The exhaust gas produced from the generator is water vapour, which is non-toxic, compared to carbon monoxide of conventional carbon based fuels. I commend the students for their ingenuity, innovation and creativity.”

Nigeria’s representatives at the fair, Dorego’s Private Academy came tops in the National Science Fair jointly sponsored by Shell, Interswitch and Intel which held in February. Finalists at the Nigeria leg of the fair, Calvary Arrows Comprehensive College, Gboko, Benue state and University Preparatory Secondary School, Benin City, Edo state.

Speaking on the need to drive and encourage innovation among youth, Corporate Affairs Manager, Intel Corporation, Mr. Osagie Ogunbor stressed that Intel is committed to encouraging interests in Science and Technology especially among the youths and believes in the future of the youth in this regard.

“Intel has sponsored the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair since 1997 because Intel believes that fostering a passion for mathematics and science in today’s youth is imperative for the global economy and the future of innovation,” stated.

The Intel International Science and Engineering Fair, is the world’s largest high school science research competition. Through a global network of local, regional and national science fairs, millions of students around the world are encouraged to explore their curiosity of how the world works and develop solutions for global challenges.  Each May, a group of these students is selected as finalists and offered the opportunity to compete for more than US$4 million in awards and scholarships.