The Professor Ayodeji Femi-Pearse Essay Competition, recently announced for Nigerian students, presents a significant opportunity to both recognize and cultivate academic talent within the nation. Open to all students currently enrolled in tertiary institutions across Nigeria, this competition is dedicated to honoring the legacy of the late Professor Ayodeji Femi-Pearse, a distinguished figure in Nigeria’s academic and medical community. With a total prize pool of N1 million, the competition not only celebrates academic excellence but also aims to inspire innovative thinking on critical national issues.
This year’s theme, “The Role of Technology in Bridging Nigeria’s Doctor to Patient Ratio,” is timely and relevant, addressing one of the most pressing challenges in the Nigerian healthcare system. With a doctor-to-patient ratio that is among the lowest in the world, Nigeria faces significant hurdles in providing adequate healthcare to its population. By focusing on technology’s potential to alleviate this issue, the competition encourages students to explore practical solutions that could lead to real-world impact.
The competition’s structure is designed to foster rigorous academic inquiry. Participants are required to submit original essays, capped at 1,500 words, by September 19, 2024. The first-place winner will receive a N500,000 award, with the first and second runners-up receiving N300,000 and N200,000, respectively. These awards not only provide financial incentives but also serve to recognize and reward intellectual contributions that could shape future policy and technological advancements in Nigeria.
In addition to the monetary prizes, the competition offers participants the chance to engage deeply with issues of national importance, potentially influencing public discourse on how Nigeria can leverage technology to improve healthcare outcomes. This aligns with broader global trends where technology is increasingly seen as a vital tool in addressing healthcare disparities.
The Professor Ayodeji Femi-Pearse Essay Competition exemplifies how academic initiatives can intersect with national development goals, creating a platform for young Nigerians to contribute to the country’s progress. It is a fitting tribute to Professor Femi-Pearse’s legacy, encouraging the next generation of leaders to think critically about the challenges facing their nation and to propose innovative solutions that could drive meaningful change.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified? Go to University of Lagos on docs.google.com to apply
