Interswitch Group has revealed the top nine finalists for the 6th edition of the InterswitchSPAK National Science Competition, marking a significant step in discovering and celebrating Nigeria’s brightest young scientific minds. This year’s competition saw a record-breaking number of participants, with thousands of secondary school students from across the country showcasing their scientific knowledge and problem-solving skills.
The finalists, selected after rigorous rounds of quizzes and tasks testing creativity in core STEM subjects, are:
– **David Babalola** (Brainfield College, Lagos)
– **Denyefa Omare** and **Chidera Ejidike** (St. Gregory’s College, Lagos)
– **Hansel Orumah** (The Ambassadors College, Ogun State)
– **Ndudu Ekong Henry** (Pegasus High School, Eket, Akwa Ibom)
– **David Umeojiaka** and **Elvis Ekwelem** (Graceland International School, Rivers State)
– **Nwachukwu Ebubechukwu** and **Uzoma David Onyeka** (Marist Brothers’ Juniorate, Abia)
These students will compete in the grand finale for the prestigious title of Nigeria’s Best STEM Student. The competition offers substantial rewards, with the top winners receiving scholarships, cash prizes, and laptops. The first-place winner will receive a five-year, N15 million scholarship, including a monthly stipend and a new laptop, while second and third places will be awarded N10 million and N5 million scholarships, respectively, along with new laptops.
The remaining finalists will also receive significant cash rewards and laptops in recognition of their achievements. Cherry Eromosele, EVP of Group Marketing and Communications at Interswitch, emphasized that InterswitchSPAK is more than just a competition; it is a platform to nurture the next generation of African innovators.
The competition aligns with Interswitch’s ongoing commitment to advancing STEM education and inspiring the next generation of problem-solvers and innovators to drive Africa’s growth.