"Research that stays in the lab is just knowledge. Research that reaches people is impact."
These words from Professor Rita Orji capture the philosophy behind an achievement that has brought renewed international attention to Nigerian excellence in science and technology. The Nigerian-born computer scientist has won Canada's 2026 Public Impact Award, recognising her contributions to artificial intelligence, persuasive computing and digital health.
The award was presented by Research Nova Scotia at the 24th annual Discovery Awards ceremony in Halifax on November 10, 2026. It celebrates research that delivers tangible benefits to society while contributing to economic development, productivity and innovation.
The recognition represents more than an academic distinction for Proffesor Orji. Reflecting on her achievement, she explained that her passion for solving problems in every community she finds herself in inspired her research career. She also described Nova Scotia as home, making the award particularly meaningful.
That commitment is evident in her work at Dalhousie University, where she serves as a Professor of Computer Science and Canada Research Chair in Persuasive Technology. Her research explores how artificial intelligence, behavioural science and digital technologies can be harnessed to address human challenges, encourage healthier behaviours and improve healthcare delivery.
Through human-centred artificial intelligence and persuasive computing, she is contributing to the development of digital interventions that respond to people's needs and support better health and wellbeing.
The significance of her work aligns with the objectives of the Public Impact Award, which places considerable emphasis on translating scientific discoveries into practical applications. Sponsored by Research Nova Scotia, the award recognises researchers whose contributions improve the province's economic performance through increased productivity, competitiveness and the creation of new opportunities.
Professor Orji emerged as the winner ahead of two other finalists. They were Dr. Stefanie Colombo of Dalhousie University, whose research focuses on improving aquaculture nutrition and developing more sustainable fish production practices, and Dr. Dave Risk of St. Francis Xavier University, whose climate science research advances the measurement and reduction of methane emissions.
Their respective fields reflect the breadth of research recognised by the award, which covers natural resources, climate change and clean energy; life sciences and health sciences; and construction and transportation.
Beyond her latest distinction, Professor Orji has also secured an influential position in international artificial intelligence governance. She is among 40 experts appointed to the United Nations' first-ever Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence, selected from more than 2,600 candidates worldwide. She is the only Nigerian among the appointed experts.
The panel brings together international specialists to strengthen scientific understanding of artificial intelligence and provide independent perspectives on a technology increasingly influencing economies, institutions and societies. Her appointment places her among the experts contributing to global discussions about the future of this transformative technology.
From her Nigerian roots to her influence in international research and technology governance, Professor Rita Orji's achievement is a distinguished addition to Nigeria's record of contributions to global knowledge and innovation. It also reinforces the importance of scientific research that goes beyond discovery to create solutions with lasting value for society.
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