In a momentous achievement, Team Online Staff Appraisal (OSTAPP) championed by Mr. Okwara K. K., Mr. Gift Adene and Miss Ekpo Virtue Iniobong (ND II Student) of the department of Computer Science, Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic, Unwana, has emerged as the third-place winner at the highly competitive 2025 National Exhibition on creativity and innovation in Polytechnics, Monotechnics and Innovation Enterprise Institutions (IEIS) for Employment Generation.
The event, which saw participation from prestigious tertiary institutions across Nigeria comprising eighty three (83) dynamic teams, showcased groundbreaking innovations in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and creative problem-solving.
The exhibition was organised by Ubelle Nigeria Limited, on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Education. It held at the Public Service Institute of Nigeria (PSIN), VeraGold hotel headquarter, Duste-Alhaji Junction, Kubwa Express way, Abuja on the 11th of February, 2025. It brought together the brightest young minds in tertiary institutions (Polytechnics and monotechnics). Teams competed fiercely, presenting innovative solutions to pressing national issues, ranging from agriculture and education to health and infrastructure.
Team OSTAPP wowed 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”— a highly effective staff appraisal system that addresses the issues of inefficiency, time consumption, high cost and environmental degradation due to paper reliance in manual staff appraisal. OSTAPP digitizes the whole appraisal process and leverages Persuasive Computing Technology to eradicate the issue of staff missing promotion due to incomplete requirements, also contributing to the achievement of SDG 8, 12 and 13 goals.
Leading the team, Okwara K. K. shared 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 organisers”
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 at large. A very big thank you to the organisers and our institution for the opportunity to represent them.”
The Polytechnic’s Rector, Dr. Felix Attah, ably represented by the Deputy Rector (Academics), Dr. Nsude F., congratulated the team on their remarkable achievement, noting, “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 of Federal Polytechnic, Illaro and Team Smart Energy Meter of Auchi Polytechnic, respectively. However, the remarkable performance by Team OSTAPP 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 has set a benchmark for future innovators from the institution.
Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic, Unwana (AIFPU), located in Ebonyi State, is renowned as one of the best polytechnics in Nigeria, distinguished for its commitment to academic excellence, technological innovation, and skill-based education. With a strong focus on producing industry-ready graduates, the institution offers a wide range of programs in engineering, science, technology, management, and the arts. 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.
