Establishing a Blockchain Research Laboratory at the University of Lagos: Empowering Education and Innovation through Cardano Technology

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Timilehin Adekunle

[GENERAL] Email address of main applicant

adeoluwabukun@gmail.com

Additional applicants

Bukola Adesoye

Bello Adeola

Simon Jeremiah

Adejumoke Adeleya

Precious Destiny

Happiness Benson

[GENERAL] Please specify how many months you expect your project to last (from 2-12 months)

6

[GENERAL] Please indicate if your proposal has been auto-translated into English from another language.

No

[GENERAL] Does your project have any dependencies on other organizations, technical or otherwise?

Yes

[GENERAL] If YES, please describe what the dependency is and why you believe it is essential for your project’s delivery. If NO, please write “No dependencies.”

Konma Upskill will help us with course material and curriculum.

[GENERAL] Will your project’s output/s be fully open source?

Yes

[GENERAL] If NO, please describe which outputs are not going to be open source. If YES, please write “Project will be fully open source.”

project will be fully open source

[METADATA] Category of proposal

Education

[METADATA] SDG rating

SDG 4: Quality Education

• 4.3: By 2030, ensure equal access for all women and men to affordable and quality technical, vocational and tertiary education, including university.
• 4.4: By 2030, substantially increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills, including technical and vocational skills, for employment, decent jobs and entrepreneurship.

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

• 9.5: Enhance scientific research, upgrade the technological capabilities of industrial sectors in all countries, in particular developing countries, including, by 2030, encouraging innovation and substantially increasing the number of research and development workers per 1 million people and public and private research and development spending.

[IMPACT] Please describe your proposed solution.

Our proposed solution aims to establish a dedicated Blockchain Research Laboratory at the University of Lagos, addressing the limited opportunities for blockchain education and research in Nigeria's higher education system.

The problem lies in the lack of resources, infrastructure and expertise to explore the potential of blockchain technology fully. By creating a specialized laboratory, we provide a cutting-edge environment for students, faculty and researchers to engage in blockchain education, conduct research and foster innovation.

Our approach stands out as it focuses on empowering the next generation of blockchain experts and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration. The laboratory will engage students from various disciplines, including computer science, business, law and engineering, providing them with hands-on experience and practical knowledge in blockchain technology.

The benefits of this solution are far-reaching. Students will acquire in-demand skills, making them highly employable in the growing blockchain industry. Faculty members will have a platform to conduct research, publish papers and contribute to advancements in the field. The wider community will benefit from the knowledge dissemination, consultancy services and potential partnerships facilitated by the laboratory.

This solution aligns with Cardano's vision by fostering blockchain adoption, innovation and education. By establishing the laboratory, we create a vibrant ecosystem that nurtures blockchain talent, promotes real-world applications and contributes to the global growth of the Cardano ecosystem.

To demonstrate the impact, we will track key metrics such as the number of students enrolled in blockchain courses, research publications, collaborations with industry partners and successful student projects. Additionally, we will engage with the Cardano community, sharing our progress, research findings and potential applications of Cardano's technology in our laboratory projects.

[IMPACT] How does your proposed solution address the challenge and what benefits will this bring to the Cardano ecosystem?

Our proposed solution addresses the challenge of limited opportunities for blockchain education and research in Nigeria's higher education system. By establishing a dedicated Blockchain Research Laboratory at the University of Lagos, we aim to bridge the gap and unlock the potential of blockchain technology within the Cardano ecosystem.

The benefits of this project for the Cardano ecosystem are significant. Firstly, it will attract talented individuals to the Cardano community by providing them with access to cutting-edge resources and educational opportunities in blockchain technology. This will contribute to the growth of the Cardano user base, expanding the community and fostering innovation.

Secondly, the establishment of the laboratory will facilitate research and development activities focused on Cardano's technology. This will enable the exploration of novel use cases, development of decentralized applications (dApps) and the identification of opportunities for Cardano's scalability, security and governance enhancements.

Furthermore, the laboratory will serve as a hub for collaboration between academia and industry. This will enable partnerships with blockchain startups, businesses and organizations that are interested in leveraging Cardano's technology. Such collaborations will not only provide real-world application scenarios for Cardano but also enhance the ecosystem's credibility and adoption.

While quantifying the impact precisely is challenging, we anticipate that within a reasonable timeframe, the establishment of the laboratory will attract a significant number of students, researchers and industry professionals to the Cardano ecosystem. Additionally, we expect to see a considerable increase in research publications, projects and collaborations related to Cardano's technology and its ecosystem.

Our project will bring tangible value to the Cardano ecosystem by expanding the user base, fostering innovation, research and creating synergistic partnerships between academia and industry. It will strengthen the Cardano community and ecosystem, positioning it as a leading force in blockchain education and research.

[IMPACT] How do you intend to measure the success of your project?

To measure the success of our project, we will employ a combination of qualitative and quantitative metrics that reflect the project's benefits for the Cardano ecosystem. These metrics include:

• Enrollment and Participation: We will track the number of students enrolling in blockchain courses and actively participating in the activities of the Blockchain Research Laboratory. Increasing enrollment indicates growing interest and engagement in blockchain education within the Cardano ecosystem.

• Research Publications and Contributions: We will monitor the number of research papers, articles and publications produced by faculty members, researchers and students in the laboratory. This metric demonstrates the level of academic and intellectual contributions to the Cardano ecosystem, enhancing its knowledge base and thought leadership.

• Industry Collaborations: We will measure the number of industry collaborations and partnerships established as a result of the laboratory's activities. Successful collaborations with businesses and startups will highlight the practical application of Cardano's technology and foster ecosystem growth.

• Student Projects and Innovations: We will assess the number and quality of student projects and innovations developed within the laboratory. This includes the creation of decentralized applications (dApps), smart contract implementations and other blockchain-based solutions that showcase the practical utility of Cardano's technology.

• User Feedback and Adoption: We will gather qualitative data through surveys and feedback mechanisms to understand users' opinions, experiences and satisfaction with the laboratory's resources, education and opportunities. Positive user feedback and increasing adoption indicate the value and effectiveness of the project in the Cardano ecosystem.

Our project will create immediate benefits by attracting students, fostering research and establishing initial industry collaborations. It will enhance the productivity of the Cardano ecosystem by generating new ideas, insights and solutions.

In the long term, the project will contribute to Cardano's growth by nurturing a talent pipeline of blockchain experts, generating a repository of research publications and driving real-world applications of Cardano's technology. This will strengthen Cardano's position as a leading blockchain platform, expand its user base and foster ecosystem-wide innovation and adoption.

[IMPACT] Please describe your plans to share the outputs and results of your project?

We have comprehensive plans to share the outputs and results of our project with the wider community and stakeholders,

• Knowledge Sharing Platform: We will create a dedicated online platform, such as a website or portal, where we will regularly share project updates, research findings, publications and relevant resources. This platform will serve as a central hub for accessing the outputs and impact of the project.

• Research Publications: We will publish research papers, articles and case studies in reputable academic journals and conferences to share our findings with the academic and research community. This will contribute to the broader body of knowledge in the field of blockchain technology and its applications within the Cardano ecosystem.

• Community Engagement: We will actively engage with the Cardano community through social media channels and community forums. Regular updates, blog posts and Q&A sessions will be conducted to keep the community informed about the progress, results and opportunities arising from the project. There is a dedicated space on Konmahood for this project.

• Industry Collaborations: We will leverage our industry partnerships to disseminate the outputs and impact of the project. This includes organizing joint events, workshops and conferences where we can showcase the project's outcomes and explore potential collaborations with industry stakeholders.

• Academic and Industry Collaborations: We will actively seek collaborations with other academic institutions, research organizations and industry players interested in blockchain technology and Cardano. Through these collaborations, we can share our project's outputs and engage in joint research and development activities, further expanding the reach and impact of our work.

The results generated from the project will form a valuable foundation for future research and development activities. We anticipate that the research findings, student projects and industry collaborations will lead to new research questions, further investigations and the development of innovative applications and solutions within the Cardano ecosystem.

[CAPABILITY/ FEASIBILITY] What is your capability to deliver your project with high levels of trust and accountability?

Our team is well-equipped to deliver this project with high levels of trust and accountability. Here are the existing capabilities that demonstrate our suitability:

• Expertise and Experience: Our team consists of experienced professionals with a strong background in research and project management. We have experts in academia, industry and blockchain development who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the project.

• Track Record: We have a proven track record of successfully executing projects in the field of blockchain technology and education. Our team members have previously led and contributed to projects related to blockchain research, curriculum development and industry collaborations.

• Academic Partnerships: We have established strong relationships and partnerships with academic institutions, including the University of Lagos. These partnerships provide us with access to resources, faculty expertise and research networks, enabling us to deliver the project effectively.

• Transparent Financial Management: We have established processes and systems in place to ensure proper financial management. This includes maintaining clear and accurate accounting records, adhering to financial regulations and guidelines and conducting regular audits to ensure proper utilization of funds.

• Governance and Reporting: We are committed to maintaining transparency and accountability throughout the project. We will establish a governance structure that outlines decision-making processes, roles and responsibilities. Regular progress reports, financial statements and updates will be provided to stakeholders and the Cardano community.

• Grant Management: We have experience in managing grants and funding from various sources. This includes complying with grant requirements, implementing monitoring and evaluation mechanisms and providing regular reports to funders to demonstrate the progress and impact of the project.

• Community Engagement: We value open communication and engagement with the Cardano community. We will actively seek feedback, input and suggestions from the community, ensuring that our project aligns with the community's needs and priorities. Regular updates, community discussions and feedback mechanisms will be implemented to maintain transparency and accountability.

By leveraging our expertise, track record, transparent financial management, governance processes, and community engagement, we are confident in our ability to deliver this project with the highest levels of trust and accountability.

[CAPABILITY/ FEASIBILITY] What are the main goals for the project and how will you validate if your approach is feasible?

The main goals for our project are as follows:

• Goal 1: Establish a state-of-the-art Blockchain Research Laboratory at the University of Lagos.
• Validation: The successful establishment and operationalization of the laboratory, including the physical infrastructure, equipment and software necessary for blockchain research and development.

• Goal 2: Enhance blockchain education and research opportunities for students and faculty.
• Validation: Increased enrollment in blockchain-related courses, positive feedback from students and faculty regarding the educational resources and opportunities provided by the laboratory and successful completion of student research projects.

• Goal 3: Foster interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation in blockchain technology.
• Validation: Facilitation of collaborative research projects involving students and faculty from various disciplines, organization of workshops and events promoting interdisciplinary discussions and knowledge exchange and development of innovative blockchain applications and solutions.

• Goal 4: Establish industry partnerships and collaborations to drive real-world application of blockchain technology.
• Validation: Formation of strategic partnerships with blockchain startups, businesses, and industry associations, successful implementation of joint projects or proof-of-concepts with industry partners and positive feedback from industry stakeholders regarding the practical impact of the laboratory's initiatives.

• Goal 5: Contribute to the Cardano ecosystem by generating research outputs and insights.
• Validation: Publication of research papers in reputable journals and conferences, dissemination of research findings and insights through academic and industry channels, and recognition of the laboratory's contributions to Cardano's technology and ecosystem development.

To validate the feasibility of our approach, we will conduct the following activities:

• Feasibility Study: We will conduct a comprehensive feasibility study to assess the technical, financial, and operational viability of establishing the Blockchain Research Laboratory. This study will include an evaluation of available resources, potential collaborations and existing infrastructure.

• Stakeholder Engagement: We will engage with key stakeholders, including university management, faculty members, students, industry partners and the Cardano community. Through consultations and discussions, we will gather feedback, insights and support for the project, ensuring alignment and feasibility.

• Pilot Initiatives: We will initially pilot specific research projects, educational programs, or collaborations to test the feasibility of our approach on a smaller scale. This will allow us to assess the effectiveness, challenges and opportunities before scaling up the project.

• Iterative Development: We will adopt an iterative approach, continually evaluating and adjusting our strategies and activities based on feedback, emerging trends and lessons learned. This will ensure that our approach remains adaptable and responsive to evolving needs and opportunities.

Regarding the implementation of our approach, we will follow a phased approach. This includes establishing the physical infrastructure, procuring necessary equipment and software, recruiting qualified staff, designing and delivering blockchain courses and workshops, fostering collaborations with industry partners and continuously monitoring and evaluating the project's progress and impact.

[CAPABILITY/ FEASIBILITY] Please provide a detailed breakdown of your project’s milestones and each of the main tasks or activities to reach the milestone plus the expected timeline for the delivery.

Milestone 1: Establish Infrastructure and Equipment (Duration: 1 month)

Tasks:

1. Conduct a needs assessment for the Blockchain Research Laboratory.
2. Procure necessary hardware, software, and networking equipment.
3. Set up the physical infrastructure, including laboratory space, furniture, and utilities.

Success Criteria:

• Completed needs assessment report.
• Procurement of required equipment within budget.
• Functional and fully equipped laboratory space.

Milestone 2: Recruitment and Training (Duration: 2 months)

Tasks:

1. Advertise and recruit qualified staff members, including lab technicians and research assistants.
2. Provide training and orientation on blockchain technology and research methodologies.

Success Criteria:

• Recruitment of qualified staff members.
• Completion of training sessions.

Milestone 3: Curriculum Development (Duration: 2 months)

Tasks:

1. Design and develop blockchain-related courses and modules.
2. Align curriculum with industry standards and emerging trends.
3. Incorporate practical exercises, case studies, and hands-on projects.

Success Criteria:

• Completed blockchain curriculum with course outlines and learning objectives.
• Integration of practical exercises and projects.

Milestone 4: Collaborations and Partnerships (Duration: Ongoing)

Tasks:

1. Identify potential industry partners, startups, and organizations interested in blockchain technology.
2. Engage in discussions, establish partnerships, and define collaboration projects.
3. Implement joint projects, proof-of-concepts, or research initiatives.

Success Criteria:

• Signed partnership agreements or memorandums of understanding.
• Successful implementation of collaborative projects.

Projected Cost: Variable (Dependent on specific collaborations)

Milestone 5: Research Projects and Publications (Duration: Ongoing)

Tasks:

1. Encourage and support faculty and students in conducting research projects related to blockchain.
2. Facilitate the publication of research papers in reputable journals and conferences.

Success Criteria:

• Completed research projects with findings and outcomes.
• Publication of research papers in reputable outlets.

Projected Cost: Variable (Dependent on specific research projects)

Milestone 6: Community Engagement and Knowledge Sharing (Duration: Ongoing)

Tasks:

1. Establish an online platform to share project updates, resources, and research findings.
2. Organize workshops, seminars, and events to engage with the Cardano community.
3. Conduct surveys and gather feedback to measure user satisfaction and impact.

Success Criteria:

• Active online platform with regular updates and engagement.
• Successful organization of workshops and events.
• Positive feedback from the Cardano community.

Project Management Approach:

• The project will be managed using a combination of agile and collaborative project management methodologies.
• Regular project meetings will be held to monitor progress, address challenges, and make necessary adjustments.
• A project manager will oversee the overall implementation, coordination of tasks, and adherence to timelines.
• Continuous communication and collaboration will be maintained among team members, stakeholders, and partners.

There is a dedicated board for this project on Notion for Milestone and work tracking. Click this link to view the board - https://konmaio.notion.site/University-of-Lagos-Empowering-Education-and-Innovation-through-Cardano-Technology-98c18b1bcc424efa8bc2405ad9267fe6?pvs=4

[CAPABILITY/ FEASIBILITY] Please describe the deliverables, outputs and intended outcomes of each milestone.

Milestone 1: Establish Infrastructure and Equipment

Deliverables:

• Needs assessment report: A document outlining the requirements and specifications for the Blockchain Research Laboratory.
• Procurement documentation: Records of the equipment, software, and networking components purchased for the laboratory.
• Fully equipped laboratory space: Physical infrastructure, furniture, and utilities ready for use.

Intended Outcomes:

• A functional and well-equipped Blockchain Research Laboratory that meets the technical and operational needs of the project.

Measurement:

• Completion of the needs assessment report.
• Procurement of required equipment within the allocated budget.
• Verification of a fully equipped and functional laboratory space.

Milestone 2: Recruitment and Training

Deliverables:

• Job advertisements and recruitment documentation: Records of the recruitment process, including job descriptions, job advertisements, and candidate evaluation.
• Training materials: Curriculum, presentations, and resources for training staff members on blockchain technology and research methodologies.

Intended Outcomes:

• Recruitment of qualified staff members who possess the necessary skills and knowledge in blockchain technology.
• Well-trained staff members who are equipped to contribute to the success of the project.

Measurement:

• Completion of the recruitment process and documentation.
• Attendance and participation records of staff members in training sessions.

Milestone 3: Curriculum Development

Deliverables:

• Blockchain curriculum: Detailed course outlines, learning objectives, and teaching materials for blockchain-related courses and modules.
• Integration of practical exercises: Incorporation of practical exercises, case studies, and hands-on projects to enhance student learning and engagement.

Intended Outcomes:

• Well-designed and comprehensive blockchain curriculum that aligns with industry standards and emerging trends.
• Engaging and practical learning experiences for students in blockchain-related courses.

Measurement:

• Completion of the blockchain curriculum with documented course outlines and learning objectives.
• Documentation of the integration of practical exercises and projects in the curriculum.

Milestone 4: Collaborations and Partnerships

Deliverables:

• Partnership agreements or memorandums of understanding (MoUs): Formal agreements with industry partners, startups, and organizations interested in blockchain collaboration.
• Implementation of joint projects or proof-of-concepts: Tangible outcomes resulting from collaborative initiatives.

Intended Outcomes:

• Establishment of collaborative relationships with industry stakeholders.
• Successful implementation of joint projects or proof-of-concepts showcasing practical applications of blockchain technology.

Measurement:

• Signed partnership agreements or MoUs with relevant organizations.
• Documentation of joint projects or proof-of-concepts, including progress reports and outcomes.

Milestone 5: Research Projects and Publications

Deliverables:

• Completed research projects: Research papers, reports, or documented outcomes from faculty and student research initiatives related to blockchain technology.
• Published research papers: Documentation of research publications in reputable journals and conferences.

Intended Outcomes:

• Generation of valuable insights and findings through research projects in the field of blockchain technology.
• Contribution to the body of knowledge through research publications that highlight the research outcomes.

Measurement:

• Completed research projects with documented findings and outcomes.
• Documentation of research papers published in reputable outlets.

Milestone 6: Community Engagement and Knowledge Sharing

Deliverables:

• Online platform: A dedicated website or portal for project updates, resources, research findings, and community engagement.
• Workshop and event documentation: Records of workshops, seminars, and events organized to engage with the Cardano community.
• User feedback and survey results: Data and analysis of user satisfaction, impact assessment, and feedback collected from the community.

Intended Outcomes:

• Active and informative online platform that disseminates project progress, resources, and research outcomes.
• Engaged Cardano community through workshops, seminars, and events, fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration.

Measurement:

• Completion and maintenance of the online platform with regular updates.
• Documentation of organized workshops, seminars, and events.
• Analysis and summary of user feedback and survey results.

[RESOURCES & VALUE FOR MONEY] Please provide a detailed budget breakdown of the proposed work and resources.

Budget Breakdown for the Proposed Work

Milestone 1: Establish Infrastructure and Equipment 20,000 ADA

• Hardware and Equipment
• Software Licenses
• Furniture and Utilities

Milestone 2: Recruitment and Training 10,000 ADA

• Staff Salaries and Benefits
• Training Materials and Resources

Milestone 3: Curriculum Development 10,000 ADA

• Course Development and Design
• Educational Resources and Materials
• External Expertise/Consultancy

Milestone 4: Collaborations and Partnerships 10,000 ADA

• Marketing and Promotions
• Travel and Meetings
• Legal and Contractual Services
• Contingency

Milestone 5: Research Projects and Publications 10,000 ADA

• Research Expenses
• Publication Fees

Milestone 6: Community Engagement and Knowledge Sharing 10,000 ADA

• Online Platform Development and Maintenance
• Workshop and Event Organization
• Community Feedback and Survey Costs

Total Budget: 70,000 ADA

Note:

• The budget breakdown reflects the allocation of funds for each milestone and associated activities as outlined in the proposal.
• The budget allows for contingencies and unforeseen expenses.
• The specific costs may vary depending on the local market conditions, project scope, and availability of resources.
• Alternative sources of funding, if needed, will be explored through external grants, industry partnerships, or university support.

[RESOURCES & VALUE FOR MONEY] How does the cost of the project represent value for money for the Cardano ecosystem?

The cost of the project represents value for money for the Cardano ecosystem due to the following justifications:

• Alignment with Objectives: The proposed project aligns with the objectives of fostering blockchain education, research and innovation within the Cardano ecosystem. The costs associated with infrastructure, recruitment, curriculum development, research projects and community engagement are necessary to establish a robust foundation for long-term growth and advancement.

• Resource Allocation: The budget breakdown reflects a careful allocation of resources to each milestone, ensuring that the necessary components such as infrastructure, equipment, staff, training, curriculum development, research initiatives and community engagement, are adequately supported. This allocation is based on the project team's expertise and understanding of the requirements for successful implementation.

• Proportional Costs: The costs outlined in the budget have been determined based on a consideration of factors such as market rates, project scope and the specific needs of the proposed activities. While specific cost justifications can vary by region and context, the project team has ensured that the costs are proportional and reasonable within the local market conditions.

• Value in Skill Development: The project will not only produce tangible deliverables and outcomes but will also provide valuable opportunities for students, faculty and researchers to gain hands-on experience, acquire in-demand skills and contribute to the growth of the Cardano ecosystem. The value derived from skill development and the potential for future contributions outweighs the initial costs.

• Long-Term Impact: By establishing a dedicated Blockchain Research Laboratory, the project lays the groundwork for long-term impact and sustainability within the Cardano ecosystem. The costs associated with research projects, publications, collaborations and community engagement reflect investments in generating knowledge, fostering innovation and attracting industry partnerships, leading to broader ecosystem growth and adoption.

While the costs outlined in the budget may appear high, they are essential investments to realize the project's goals and objectives. The project team has carefully assessed the costs based on industry standards, market rates and the specific requirements of each milestone. The value for money is derived from the project's potential to create a thriving environment for blockchain education, research and practical applications, ultimately strengthening the Cardano ecosystem as a leading blockchain platform.

[IMPORTANT NOTE] The Applicant agreed to Fund10 rules and also that data in the Submission Form and other data provided by the project team during the course of the project will be publicly available.

I Accept