By Jude Michael
The Anambra Innovation Week which officially kicked off on Monday, November 25, 2024, with a grand opening ceremony at the Anambra International Conference Centre, Awka, has ended.
Speaking at the event, themed, “Creating the Future of Africa Now,” the Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, described the Week as a game-changer in shaping Africa’s digital future.
‘I just wrapped up an incredible week at the Anambra Innovation Week! I’m beaming with pride as I reflect on the creativity, innovation, and genius on display. From secondary school students to undergraduates and MSMEs, our young people are truly shaping the future!
‘I listened to inspiring presentations, engaging and thought-provoking panel session on the creative industry, and awarding cheques to outstanding innovators and creators who participated in the “Battle for Solutions” competition.
‘As I toured the booths, I was amazed by the cutting-edge solutions, innovative products and services on showcase. It’s clear that our administration’s intentional investment in technology is paying off, and I couldn’t be more proud!
‘To all the participants, organizers — the Solution Innovation District — and stakeholders who made this week a success, I say thank you! Let’s keep pushing the boundaries of innovation and shaping a brighter future for Anambra State and beyond,’ he concluded.
In her address of welcome, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Innovation and Business Incubation, Chinwe Okoli, expressed her pride and gratitude to all participants, dignitaries, and partners.
She emphasized the importance of innovation and technology in building a prosperous Africa, aligning with Governor Soludo’s vision for a digitally empowered Anambra State.
The five-day event was packed with exciting activities, including discussions on demystifying innovation, digital ecosystem, and emerging tech trends.
The week also featured a Career Conference tailored for students and young professionals across all 21 LGAs, complemented by a nationwide ICT quiz competition and startup hackathons.
On the third day, the focus shifted to the Digital Transformation Conference for SMEs and Government where discussions centred on governance efficiency and leveraging AI for impactful service delivery.
The fourth day featured the Startup Conference and Tradenovation Fair where creativity and enterprise was celebrated with exhibitions, panels, and startup pitching competitions.
The week culminated on the fifth day with the Grand Summit, featuring exhibitions, high-level ministerial panels, and the official launch of transformative initiatives such as the One Million Anambra Digital Tribe and the Anambra Angel Network.
The Anambra Innovation Week 2024 is one of the state’s commitment to innovation and technology.
With its rich activities, the event inspired, empowered, and connected participants, ultimately shaping the future of Africa.
The event witnessed the launch of the Anambra Innovation Marketplace, a state-of-the-art Makerspace established in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
The Makerspace is designed to democratize access to entrepreneurship and technological innovation, providing young people with the resources, skills, and collaborative environments to bring their ideas to life.
The Anambra Innovation Week 2024 was open to the public, and registration was free. The event also attracted participants from across the country and beyond, providing a platform for innovation, collaboration, and transformation.
As the host, Chinwe Okoli encouraged participants to immerse themselves fully in the sessions, connect with fellow participants, and embrace the spirit of innovation, which, she said, defined Anambra.
‘Together, let us create solutions that resonate beyond our borders and shape the Africa of our dreams. Once again, I welcome you all to the Anambra Innovation Week 2024. Let us innovate, collaborate, and transform the future—starting now,’ Okoli said.
