Date Published: 11/11/11

World Bank releases $30,000 research grant to Fed. Poly, Ede

The World Bank has released a $30,000 research grant to a team of researchers, including students at the Federal Polytechnic, Ede, near Osogbo, Osun State.

Dr John Adekolawole, the Director, Science and Technology Department and leader of the team, who made the announcement on Thursday in Ede, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the project, which was in five stages, was tagged: ``Innovation Of Tomorrow Project.''

He said that each of the five projects attracted $6,000.

Adekolawole listed the five projects to include nuclear radiation detector; hot wire anemometer and GSM German remote control that could demobilise mobile phones; a new storage technique for banana as well as a teaching aid.

``The nuclear radiation detector is a dust compatible counter which can count dust per unit volume in an environment, and is particularly useful for asthmatic patients.''

NAN reports that another research work to be undertaken by the institution include a radio-metre, used in measuring energy from leaves and could be useful to detect objects from the satellite.

Adekolawole said the focus of the research had been on the production of more modern electronics, such as stabilizers, welding machines and satellite dishes.

He, however, noted with regret that the major challenge facing research efforts was low patronage from investors, who were expected to utilise the products.

He said most investors, including government contractors, preferred foreign equipment to locally made tools, regardless of the quality.

(NAN)