Prof. Rose-Margaret Ekeng-Itua, visionary CEO and Founder of the African Technology and Innovation Institutes (ATII), delivered a compelling keynote address at the CRID-USA Convention Gala, calling for greater investment in STEM education, innovation, scholarships, and youth development as critical drivers of sustainable growth in Cross River State and across Africa.
Addressing an audience of diaspora leaders, policymakers, academics, business professionals, and development partners, Prof. Ekeng-Itua highlighted Africa’s growing importance in the global talent ecosystem, emphasizing that the continent’s youthful population represents one of its greatest strengths.
According to her, approximately 60 percent of Africa’s population is under the age of 25, creating unprecedented opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, workforce development, and economic transformation.
“The world is aging, and the world is searching for talent,” she said. “Increasingly, the world is looking to Africa, to Nigeria, and indeed to Cross River State, for the next generation of innovators, creators, builders, and problem-solvers.”
Leveraging Africa’s Youthful Population
Prof. Ekeng-Itua described Africa’s demographic advantage as a unique opportunity that must be harnessed through strategic investments in education and future-focused skills development.
She noted that Cross River State is well-positioned to become a leader in innovation, education, and emerging technologies if deliberate efforts are made to equip young people with the knowledge and skills required for the future economy.
Her remarks reinforced the growing global recognition of Africa as a hub for talent, creativity, and technological advancement.
Education as a Foundation for Sustainable Development
Throughout her keynote address, Prof. Ekeng-Itua emphasized the transformative role of education in shaping societies and creating opportunities for future generations.
Referencing Nelson Mandela’s assertion that education is the most powerful weapon for changing the world, she stressed that investments in education have far-reaching impacts on families, communities, and nations.
“Education transforms families. Education transforms communities. Education transforms nations. Education transforms destiny,” she stated.
She encouraged stakeholders to view educational development not merely as a social responsibility but as a strategic investment in long-term prosperity and nation-building.
Rethinking Educational Infrastructure
A major focus of the keynote was the need to strengthen educational infrastructure across Nigeria and Africa.
While acknowledging the importance of reliable electricity, internet connectivity, and learning facilities, Prof. Ekeng-Itua challenged participants to broaden their understanding of infrastructure.
According to her, sustainable educational progress depends not only on physical infrastructure but also on strong policies, institutional frameworks, advocacy systems, and youth development initiatives.
“Infrastructure is not just physical; it is intellectual, digital, and institutional,” she explained.
She called for collaborative efforts among governments, educational institutions, industry leaders, and diaspora communities to create enabling environments that foster innovation, research, and lifelong learning.
Advancing STEM Education for Future Generations
Drawing from her extensive background in engineering, technology, and education, Prof. Ekeng-Itua made a passionate case for increased participation in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education.
She challenged the widespread perception that mathematics and STEM subjects are inherently difficult, noting that such narratives often discourage young learners from exploring careers in critical fields.
Instead, she advocated for a culture that encourages curiosity, creativity, problem-solving, and confidence among students.
“We need more children in STEM. We need more future engineers, doctors, scientists, innovators, and technology leaders in our classrooms,” she said.
Her message aligns closely with ATII’s mission of advancing innovation, research, technology, and education across Africa and beyond.
Scholarships as a Pathway to Opportunity
Prof. Ekeng-Itua also underscored the importance of scholarship initiatives in expanding access to quality education.
Encouraging attendees to support educational causes, she noted that every contribution, regardless of size, has the potential to transform lives and create opportunities for young people who may otherwise be left behind.
She emphasized that investing in education today creates a ripple effect that benefits future generations, strengthens communities, and contributes to sustainable development.
A Call for Collective Action
Concluding her address, Prof. Ekeng-Itua called on stakeholders across government, academia, industry, and the diaspora to work together in building a stronger educational ecosystem for Cross River State and beyond.
She expressed confidence that through collaboration, innovation, and strategic investment in human capital development, communities can create a future defined by opportunity, resilience, and progress.
The keynote served as a powerful reminder that education remains one of the most effective tools for unlocking potential, driving innovation, and shaping a brighter future for Africa’s next generation.
As ATII continues to champion innovation, research, and education, Prof. Ekeng-Itua’s message reinforced the urgent need to invest in young people today to secure a more prosperous tomorrow.