In a momentous achievement, the Online Staff Appraisal Team (OSTAPP), led by Mr. Okwara K. K., Mr. Gift Adene, and Miss Ekpo Virtue Iniobong (ND II Student) from the Department of Computer Science at Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic, Unwana, secured third place at the highly competitive 2025 National Exhibition on Creativity and Innovation in Polytechnics, Monotechnics, and Innovation Enterprise Institutions (IEIS) focused on Employment Generation.
The event took place on February 11, 2025, at the Public Service Institute of Nigeria (PSIN), situated at the VeraGold Hotel headquarters, Duste-Alhaji Junction, Kubwa Expressway, Abuja. It brought together eighty-three dynamic teams from prestigious tertiary institutions across Nigeria, highlighting groundbreaking innovations in science, technology, engineering, arts, and creative problem-solving.
Organized by Ubelle Nigeria Limited on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Education, the exhibition featured fierce competition, with teams presenting innovative solutions to pressing national issues, including agriculture, education, health, and infrastructure.
Team OSTAPP impressed the panel of judges and attendees with their innovative project titled “Digital Transformation in Government Human Resource Management: The Case of the Online Staff Appraisal Management System.” This highly effective staff appraisal system addresses inefficiencies, time consumption, high costs, and environmental degradation caused by reliance on paper in manual staff appraisals. OSTAPP digitizes the entire appraisal process and utilizes Persuasive Computing Technology to prevent staff from missing promotions due to incomplete requirements, contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 8, 12, and 13.
Leading the team, Okwara K. K. expressed their excitement: “We are thrilled to have placed third in such a prestigious national event. Competing against some of the best minds in the country was both challenging and rewarding. Thank you to the organizers.”
Team member Mr. Gift Adene added, “This win is a testament to the hard work, innovation, and resilience of our entire team and the Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic as a whole. A big thank you to the organizers and our institution for the opportunity to represent them.”
The Polytechnic’s Rector, Dr. Felix Attah, represented by the Deputy Rector (Academics), Dr. Nsude F., congratulated the team on their remarkable achievement. He noted, “Team OSTAPP has made us immensely proud. This achievement not only highlights the technical excellence of our students but also underscores the strength of Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic, Unwana, as a hub for innovation and problem-solving.”
The first and second prizes were claimed by Team Electrical Tricycle from Federal Polytechnic, Illaro, and Team Smart Energy Meter from Auchi Polytechnic, respectively. However, Team OSTAPP’s outstanding performance solidified their reputation as a rising force in technological innovation.
The exhibition concluded with a call for increased support for tech development in Nigerian polytechnics and monotechnics. Team OSTAPP’s accomplishment sets a benchmark for future innovators from their institution.
Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic, Unwana (AIFPU), located in Ebonyi State, is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, technological innovation, and skill-based education. The institution offers a wide range of programs in engineering, science, technology, management, and the arts, with a strong focus on producing industry-ready graduates. Its state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty, and vibrant research culture have positioned it as a leader in fostering creative solutions to societal challenges. The Polytechnic’s reputation for innovation is further reinforced by its outstanding performance in national competitions and exhibitions, making it a preferred choice for students seeking hands-on, impactful education.