Oniosun Temidayo Isaiah, a 500 level student of the Department of Meteorology and Climate Science, Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) has emerged one of the 14 Global winners of the 2016 International Astronomical Federation (IAF) Emerging Space Leaders Grant instituted by the International Astronomical Federation, Paris, France. The Grant which was keenly contested with more than 100 students and young professionals from 38 countries around the world submitting applications to participate in the programme produced two African winners, Oniosun and Tijesu Ojumu, a graduate of FUTA who currently works at the National Space Research and Development Agency.
Oniosun, the President of the University Space Club under the Centre for Space Research and Applications (CESRA), will participate in the 67thInternational Astronomical Congress, Space Generation Congress and UN/IAF Workshop in Guadalajara, Mexico between 21st September and 2nd October 2016. During the congress, Oniosun would be presenting series of research works and a paper on the University Space Club analyzing past and ongoing projects/events as well as shedding light on the club’s mission with a view to collaborating with other Space Enthusiasts.
The Emerging Space Leaders (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.
Reacting to the development, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebiyi Daramola expressed gratitude to God for the continuous growth of the University, particularly in terms of research and collaboration which he noted has been very instrumental in taking and sustaining the University in the global market. He expressed fulfillment that the University was able to compete favourably in the global intellectual market and acquire numerous laurels at both student and staff levels. He expressed optimism that the University would continue in these strides in the years to come in order to sustain its position as one of the leading Nigerian Universities.