The 2024 Mega Innovative Bootcamp, held from June 24th to July 14th, 2024, was a remarkable event organized by the Nigeria Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) in collaboration with Washington State University, the University of Northern Carolina, the National Cancer Institute, and other esteemed partners. This intensive three-week program aimed to enhance the professional development, research, and community engagement skills of Youth Research Facilitators (NIMR interns) who are part of the C3-RISE study implemented under the 4GW and 4MB projects, preparing them for the active phase of the project.

During the bootcamp, five teams of Youth Research Facilitators, selected from the Mega Designathon held in April, pitched their innovative ideas to increase HPV vaccination uptake among girls aged 9-14 years under the 4GW project and to increase birth dose HBV vaccination uptake under the 4MB project.

Team Shield, composed of 500L OAU medical students Akinmoladun Precious, Eshemokhai Okhesomi, Ibironke Bright, Akanni Shukrah, and Elufioye Victoria, presented a compelling pitch on “How to Increase Human Papilloma Virus Vaccination Uptake Among Girls Aged 9-14 in Nigeria” under the 4Communities category. Their outstanding presentation earned them first place in their category.

Team Hexa, consisting of 500L OAU medical students Olowoyeye Aishat, Akindele Boluwatife, Obaniyi Oluwatotele, and Ikotun Taofikat, delivered an impressive pitch on “How to Promote Birth-Dose Hepatitis B Virus Vaccination in Newborns in Nigeria” under the 4Mothers and Babies category. Their innovative approach secured them first place in their category as well.

The success of these teams would not have been possible without the unwavering support of the Dean of Clinical Sciences, Professor O.A. Sowande, alongside the Heads of Departments of their respective postings, including Professor O.N. Makinde, Professor Obianjuwa, Professor Boladale Mapayi, and Professor Ibitoye, as well as Dr. Fehintola and Dr. Esan of the Community Health Department. Their guidance and encouragement played a crucial role in the teams’ achievements.