Lagos State University (LASU) inaugurated its Innovation Center on December 13, 2024, marking a major step in advancing research, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development.
The facility, officially named the Centre of Excellence for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (Awori House), was handed over by Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals, to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for management.
The commissioning ceremony at LASU’s Ojo campus brought together university officials, development partners, and government representatives, including Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, UNDP Resident Representative Ms. Elsie Attafuah, and Commissioner for Tertiary Education Hon. Tolani Sule. Speakers at the event highlighted the centre’s role in fostering innovation and economic growth.
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Designed by architect Oluwabusuyi Adonis Fakanlu, the two-story structure integrates sustainable and energy-efficient features. It consumes 40% less energy for lighting and cooling than conventional buildings, utilising natural ventilation and strategic window placement. An advanced waste management system connected to a biodigester converts sewer waste into natural gas, promoting renewable energy use.
The facility, located adjacent to the Faculty of Science, includes workspaces, creative studios, and high-end multimedia equipment to support research and entrepreneurship. UNDP plans to use the centre as a model for similar hubs across Nigeria.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Orelope-Adefulire, Attafuah, and Olatunji-Bello, formalising a partnership to develop innovation-driven initiatives. LASU officials expressed optimism that the centre would empower students and researchers to develop solutions addressing societal challenges.
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