Interswitch, a leading integrated payments and digital commerce company, has officially announced the nine exceptional finalists for the seventh edition of its flagship Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, the InterswitchSPAK National Science Competition. This prestigious STEM contest, which has become a cornerstone of scientific education in Nigeria, has reached a critical milestone with the selection of these talented students from a nationwide pool of participants.
Rigorous Selection Process Yields Top Talent
The competition began with an impressive registration of over 18,000 senior secondary school students from across Nigeria, reflecting the growing interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics among the youth. Through a demanding computer-based qualifying test, the field was narrowed down to 81 outstanding students representing all six geopolitical zones of the country. From this group, 27 semi-finalists emerged, and after further evaluations, nine finalists have been chosen to advance to the grand finale.
Executive Insights on the Competition's Impact
Cherry Eromosele, Executive Vice President of Group Marketing and Communications at Interswitch, emphasized the significance of this achievement. She stated that InterswitchSPAK plays a vital role in shaping Africa's future talent pipeline by identifying, inspiring, and rewarding excellence in STEM education. Eromosele highlighted that the competition aims to equip young Africans with the skills necessary to tackle real-world challenges, noting that the finalists have shown remarkable brilliance, resilience, and a deep passion for innovation.
Meet the Nine Finalists
The selected finalists come from various schools across Nigeria, showcasing the widespread talent in the nation's educational institutions. They include:
- Lyon Awhaisoba from Apt Scholars Universal College in Ogun State
- Naetochukwu Ochi from Jesuit Memorial College in Rivers State
- Saint Riman from Adedokun International Schools in Ogun State
- Emmanuel Ashaolu from Welkin International School in Ogun State
- Gbolamiga Atekoja from Heritreats Private Secondary School in Ondo State
- David Solomon Ezemma from Deeper Life High School in Enugu State
- Eke David from Marist Brothers' Juniorate in Abia State
- Chukwubudem Ezeobi from British Spring College in Anambra State
- David Okorie from Caleb International College in Lagos State
Substantial Prizes and Scholarships at Stake
At the upcoming grand finale, these finalists will compete for scholarships and prizes totaling over N35 million. The overall winner will receive a N15 million tertiary education scholarship distributed over five years, along with a brand-new laptop and monthly stipends. The first runner-up will be awarded a N10 million scholarship spanning three years and a laptop, while the second runner-up will get a N5 million one-year scholarship and a laptop. Additionally, cash prizes will be given to finalists ranked fourth through ninth, and recognition will be extended to the top 18 semi-finalists and 27 outstanding teachers who provided mentorship throughout the competition.
This event underscores Interswitch's commitment to fostering scientific excellence and innovation among Nigerian youth, positioning the InterswitchSPAK competition as a key driver in developing the next generation of problem-solvers and leaders in Africa.
