Arc-Lights Foundation Hosts Virtual ARC-RISE Summit 2026 on AI and STEM Education
Arc-Lights Foundation has announced the successful hosting of its inaugural ARC-RISE Summit 2026, a virtual gathering that brought together learners, educators, and technology enthusiasts from 14 countries. The summit focused on advancing conversations around artificial intelligence, robotics, and STEM education, while highlighting practical, inclusive approaches to innovation across Africa.
Moving Beyond Dialogue to Tangible Outcomes
Setting the tone for the event, Director of Arc-Lights Foundation, Abisola Obasanya, said the initiative was designed to move beyond dialogue to tangible outcomes. "ARC-RISE was created to bring together people who are ready to build the future. We are not just discussing STEM education; we are creating real opportunities for learners and educators," she said.
Key Sessions and Discussions
The summit featured a keynote session followed by a series of discussions blending strategy with hands-on learning. A session on AI and Robotics 2030: Data Predictions and Key Strategic Actions explored how Africa can better equip students for a rapidly evolving technological landscape. Speakers emphasised the need for depth in teaching and real-world application.
- Robotics coach Vladimir Ussoltsev urged educators to prioritise foundational understanding over quick wins, noting that long-term stability in robotics comes from structured problem-solving.
- Dr Samuel Anih highlighted persistent challenges in public schools, particularly limited access to robotics kits and insufficient teacher training.
- Valentine Masicha called for more context-driven learning, stressing that robotics education should address real-life challenges in sectors such as agriculture and healthcare.
Integrating Robotics into National Curricula
A panel session on integrating robotics into national curricula underscored the gap between policy and implementation. Bahta Mamo Bekele stressed that quality education depends on well-trained educators, while Professor Aramide Kolawole encouraged participants to take an active role in shaping the future through innovation.
Practical Demonstrations and Tools
Practical demonstrations formed a core part of the summit. Arc-Lights Foundation’s WRO Learn platform was showcased as a tool enabling students to virtually programme and test robots, reducing the need for physical resources. Babatunde Fasasi explained that the platform allows users to simulate robot movement and measure distance digitally, saving time and cost. Balogun Wasiu also demonstrated how low-cost materials, such as cardboard, can be used to build functional robotics solutions.
Industry Collaboration and Support
Industry contributors called for stronger institutional collaboration. Engineer Chidubem advocated for tech hubs to evolve into formal partners within education systems, while John Klutse outlined how RoboPass is working with institutions to expand access to practical STEM training for both teachers and students.
Awards and Recognition
The summit also hosted the WRO 2026 Information Session, unveiling details of the upcoming global challenge, and featured the WRO Nigeria Future Engineers Award, recognising emerging young innovators. In a major highlight, a University of Lagos student, Elizabeth, was awarded a N1 million scholarship, reinforcing the foundation’s commitment to supporting young talent through direct investment.
Government Commendation
The event drew commendation from the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology. Permanent Secretary Philip Ndiomu Ebiogeh praised Arc-Lights Foundation’s efforts in advancing STEM education and expressed interest in supporting initiatives such as WRO Learn to broaden access to practical learning.
