By Charles Maduka
Team Pharmacode from the University of Lagos has emerged winner of the AFRETEC-UNILAG Innovation-in-Health Challenge 2025, taking home a cash prize of N2 million for their health tech solution, “Nutritec AI.” The saliva-based MammaGlobin test strip and web application is designed to help women aged 25 to 55 detect breast cancer risk easily and affordably, while offering nutritional advice and hospital referrals.
The grand finale, held at the Old Great Hall of the College of Medicine, Idi-Araba, featured 14 student teams from nine Nigerian universities, including UNIBEN, LAUTECH, UNIJOS, FUPRE, UNIMED, and YABATECH. Team Pharmacode’s innovation impressed judges with its non-invasive, science-backed approach that also features USSD access for rural communities.
Second place went to Team MedPatch from Thomas Adewunmi University, which developed an AI-powered wearable micro-needle patch for early disease detection, winning N1.5 million. Team EmergiBridge, also from UNILAG, claimed third place and N1 million with its real-time hospital referral web app for critical patients.
Other innovations presented included AI-based diagnostics, healthcare access platforms, and mental health tools from participating institutions.
A keynote address was delivered by Mr. Adekunle Dalton-Oke of ABCHealth, who emphasized the importance of digital health solutions in addressing Africa’s healthcare challenges. Remarks were also given by CMUL Provost Prof. Ademola Oremosu, ABS-CITS Director Prof. M.O.H. Amuda, and ITMO Director Dr. Olayinka Adewumi.
According to Dr. Adewumi, the competition received 102 applications from 339 students in 24 universities. The challenge, which launched in March 2025, was designed to promote multidisciplinary health innovations among Nigerian university students. It was coordinated by UNILAG’s Innovation and Technology Management Office in collaboration with AFRETEC and the College of Medicine.
The initiative also included a Young Innovators’ Forum and a special webinar on using MATLAB for health innovation design.
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