The Anambra Innovation Week 2024 has kicked off with over a thousand youths targeted to ensure a progressive development of ICT in the state.
The event which took place at the International Conference Centre, Awka on 25th Nov had its Theme
“Creating the future of Africa now” was organised by the Solution Innovation District, Anambra state.
Speaking at the event, the convener and Special Adviser to the Governor on Innovation and Business Incubation, Ms Chinwe Okoli said the event was in line with the Governor’s vision of a digitally-empowered Anambra.
According to Okoli, this lineup is designed not only to inspire but also to empower participants with actionable insights and opportunities to innovate, network, and thrive.
She said the bold initiative had since become a beacon for innovation, nurturing startups, empowering young talents, and driving the state’s transition into a knowledge-based economy.
“From hosting groundbreaking training programs to developing the framework for the Anambra Digital Economy Blueprint, SID has made remarkable strides in positioning Anambra as a hub for technology and entrepreneurship in Africa.
“Today, this platform stands as a testament to how visionary leadership can ignite transformational change.
“The event seeks to leverage the transformative power of technology and innovation in building an Africa that thrives in the digital economy,” she stated.
While running down the overview of the event’s week, Ms Okoli said Day 1, set the foundation with discussions on demystifying innovation, the digital ecosystem, and how emerging tech trends can shape the state’s future.
“The gathering will equally dive into a high-impact panel exploring the challenges and opportunities of digital transformation in emerging economies.
“Day 2, brings a Career Conference tailored for students and young professionals across all 21 LGAs, complemented by a nationwide ICT quiz competition and startup hackathons.
“On Day 3, our focus shifts to the Digital Transformation Conference for SMEs and Government, where discussions will centre on governance efficiency and leveraging AI for impactful service delivery.
“Day 4, will feature the Startup Conference and Tradenovation Fair, where we celebrate creativity and enterprise with exhibitions, panels, and startup pitching competitions.
“Finally, Day 5, the Grand Summit, with 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.”
In an official speech by the Chief host, Governor Charles Soludo, ably represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr Onyeka Ibezim said we are quite delighted that this event is happening on our time. We are glad that we have a Governor who came in with a clear vision for Ndi Anambra both home and abroad.
“If you don’t embrace technology, growth and development will leave you. In Anambra, we have mapped out areas for youth development. A couple of days ago, we flagged off the district innovation centre. It is the first of its kind in Southeast”.
Dr Onyekachukwu Ibezim assured that his administration would not relent in creating an enabling environment for innovators especially those investing in technology to thrive.
However, some of the discussants who spoke during the event were the Author, of Silicon Valley, Chukwuemka Afigbo who spoke on emerging tech trends and opportunities for the younger generations.
An Information Technologist, Mr Emmanuel Essiet, urged Nigerians to embrace emerging technological tools like Artificial Intelligence (AI) by building knowledge around them and using them to create a great future.
Daniel Chinagozi CEO of IGR, discussed demystifying innovation and technology, “the innovation lifestyle”.
Others were the managing Director, of Anambra ICT Agency, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata and CEO of PBN SOLUTIONS, Bola Lawal, among others
