Nigerian student, Isaiah wins Emerging Space Leaders grant

A 500-Level student of the Department of Meteorology and Climate Science, Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Oniosun Temidayo Isaiah, has emerged one of the 14 global winners of the 2016 International Astronomical Federation (IAF) Emerging Space Leaders Grant (ESL) instituted by the International Astronomical Federation, Paris, France.

The grant, which was keenly contested for with more than 100 students and young professionals from 38 countries from around the world submitting applications produced two African winners, Isaiah and Tijesu Ojumu, a graduate of the same institution, who currently works at the National Space Research and Development Agency.

As a result of the feat, Isaiah, who is the president of the University Space Club under the Centre for Space Research and Applications (CESRA), will participate in the 67th International Astronomical Congress, Space Generation Congress and UN/IAF Workshop in Guadalajara, Mexico, from September 21st October 2nd, 2016.

During the congress, he would present series of research works and a paper on the club, analysing past and ongoing projects/events as well as shedding light on the club’s mission with a view to collaborating with other Spacs enthusiasts.

The ESL grant is usually awarded to students and young professionals between the ages of 21 and 35 adjudged to have contributed the most to space science and technology in the world.

FUTA Vice Chancellor, Prof. Adebiyi Daramola, in his remarks expressed gratitude to God for the continuous growth of the university in the areas of research and collaboration, assuring that the school would continue in these strides in the years to come in order to sustain its position as one of Nigeria’s universities.