–By Gertrude Onyekachukwu-Uteh:
A beneficiary of the Delta State Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Programme (STEP), Mr Kelvin Ochuko Atano, emerged as the overall winner of the 2023 Technology and Innovation Expo in the State Ministry Category.
The 2023 Expo organised by the Federal Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation last month was attended by the 36 states of the federation in Abuja.
Mr Atano’s company representing Delta State Ministry of Science and Technology in the State Ministry Category said, “Delta State came first with JK Science Tech Innovative Company Limited’s product- a solar charge controller which is a device that controls the charging of battery via solar panels. This is one of the products of JK Science Tech Innovative Company Limited which I co-own with my partner.”
Mr Atano has B.Sc. in Accounting and PGD in Business Management. He hails from Ughelli North Local Government Area. He got enrolled into STEP in the 2017/2018 cycle and was trained in Electrical Installation and Repairs. He is the Co-MD/CEO of JK Science & Tech Innovative Company LTD, an Effurun-based company that deals in all fields of Electrical and Electronics Engineering; known for the production of electronic devices and to offer electrical services.
Since establishment, Kelvin has recorded immense growth in capacity and patronage which has helped him procure more equipment and take care of his family needs. He is an innovative, inquisitive and a determined entrepreneur with a passion for excellence. He is an employer and a trainer of technicians and IT students from tertiary institutions. He has attended several fairs representing Delta State under the Ministry of Science and Technology and has received several national awards.
In his words, “We have more than 20 products such as vehicle tracking device that locates and demobilizes a vehicle; portable power alarm device with volume and time controls as features; fire and gas alarm device that sends SMS messages to 2-3 persons; inverter; moving message device and digital clock; automatic voltage selector device; stabilizer; device that can check fuel purity; maximum power point tracker controller among others.
“Currently, we have two offices. We are almost done with standardization with the relevant authorities; we are awaiting commercialization. Whoever does not take full advantage of the job creation programme is not serious-minded. I identified my dream and followed it. I really appreciate the Government of Delta State.”