STEM competition winner shines, gets N15m scholarship
STEM competition winner shines, gets N15m scholarship.
The winner of the InterswitchSPAK National Science Competition, Henry Ndudu Ekong of Pegasus School, Akwa Ibom state, has received a N15 million tertiary scholarship.
The scholarship is spread over five years, with a laptop, and monthly stipends.
A statement by InterswitchSPAK, said that after an initial National Qualifying Examination and a 13-week televised competition, three outstanding students emerged as this year’s top winners, each demonstrating remarkable scientific proficiency and critical thinking.
The first runner-up, Eric Denyefa Omare of St. Gregory’s College in Lagos was awarded a N10m scholarship spread over three years and a laptop, while David Umeojiaka from Graceland International School, Rivers, emerged as the second runner-up securing a N5m scholarship for one year and a laptop.
“Furthermore, cash prizes were awarded to the fourth to ninth-place winners. The top 18 semi-finalists and the top 27 contributing teachers also received cash prizes. In addition, the top 200 preliminary qualifiers received JAMB e-PINS to register for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board examinations free of charge.
Now in its sixth year, InterswitchSPAK was introduced to celebrate exceptional young talent as part of Interswitch’s commitment to promoting Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics education in Africa.
The statement added, “Drawing participation from over 16,000 students across Nigeria, the competition set the stage to recognise and celebrate the country’s brightest young minds and their depth of knowledge in STEM subjects.
The winners emerged through their exceptional display of knowledge and understanding in STEM subjects, highlighting Interswitch’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s future leaders and innovators.”
Commenting on the competition, Executive Vice President, Group Marketing and Communications at Interswitch Group, Cherry Eromosele, emphasised the critical role of STEM education in Africa’s growth and Interswitch’s dedication to cultivating young talent and driving meaningful innovation.
She stated, “At Interswitch, we believe that Nigeria’s future lies in the minds and hands of our youth, especially those who are passionate about science and technology. InterswitchSPAK 6.0 exemplifies our commitment to empowering these bright minds by providing them with the tools, skills, and resources they need to innovate and excel. Our investment in STEM education not only fuels individual success but also drives economic growth and societal progress, building a brighter future for Nigeria.”
The winner, Henry Ekong, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Interswitch, saying, “Winning InterswitchSPAK 6.0 is a tremendous honour, and I’m grateful to Interswitch for investing in my future through this scholarship. This achievement motivates me to strive for excellence and make a meaningful impact.”
