Nigeria grabs excellence award at US Science, Engineering show

By Prince Osuagwu Nigeria’s representatives at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) held in Phoenix, US last week 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, Mr 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.” Speaking on the need to drive and encourage innovation among youth, Corporate Affairs Manager, Intel Corporation, Mr. Osagie Ogunbor stressed that Intel was committed to encouraging interests in Science and Technology especially among the youths. in Vanguard