MTN Nigeria invites applications for the MTN Academic Research & Development Innovation Challenge in 2020.
As of 2017, the Labour statistics report for Nigeria showed that there is 7.9 million Nigerian youth aged 15-34 that are currently unemployed. The report, released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) also revealed that 58.1% of youth within this age bracket who are currently working are underemployed. Entrepreneurship is an effective way to fight against youth unemployment in the country.
The MTN Academic Research Development and Innovation Challenge (MTN ARDIC) is an end-to-end support system where selected students would translate their ideas into solutions through a seamless access to applicable tools, data, platform and hands-on mentoring.
MTN will be hosting an exclusive launch of the event to connect with other organizations supporting MTN’s mission to inspire young Nigerian to become entrepreneurs and foster their journey. Students, entrepreneurs and relevant stakeholders are invited to attend the 3 regional pitching events to pitch for the chance to win.
Worth of Award
- At the end of the challenge, MTN would provide the top 6 well-motivated Masters/PhD researchers who want to translate their research ideas into high-impact innovations with enabling platforms, APIs, data, training, mentorship and 6 months acceleration with Seedstars to further develop the ideas towards commercialization.
- MTN will provide N1 Million to the winners
Eligibility
To be considered for selection in the MTNN ARDIC, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be a registered current postgraduate (Masters or Doctorate) student of an accredited Nigerian university or research institute.
- Must have received confirmation from faculty and commenced research in one of the focus areas.
- Must be interested in applying the findings from his/her research to solve practical socio-economic challenges in Nigeria.
- Must provide evidence of rightful ownership of the research topic/idea submitted for consideration.
- Must agree to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to be drawn between relevant parties (MTN and other Implementing Partners) at relevant stages of the challenge.
- Must have commenced and been studying the chosen research area for at least 8 months. Students who have completed their research study but are yet to graduate from their universities are also eligible to apply.
How to Apply
Fill the online form on their website immediately to Pitch or as an attendee
Deadline: Please complete your application before October 14, 2019 for the Zaria pitching event.