Nigerian schools recently showcased their talents and innovation at the Rwanda International FIRST LEGO League Championship, an event highlighting the burgeoning interest and capability in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) across Africa.
The program which was organised by the Rwandan Ministries of Education, Information and Communication Technology, and the Rwanda Education Board (REB), in collaboration with Coderina and other partners, the championship attracted participants from across the globe, with Nigeria being represented by four distinguished schools.
Federal Government College Ikirun, Ondo State stood out as the beacon of excellence, clinching the overall winner title of the international championship. Their prowess was further acknowledged as they secured the Robot Performance award, thanks to their outstanding score.
Spring-hall School, based in Abuja, also made a notable impact by finishing as the 2nd runner-up. The creativity and technical skill of Preston International School were recognised through the Robot Design Award, while Hillside School Abuja earned the 1st runner-up position in the Innovation Project Award.
The championship ran concurrently with the Rwanda National FIRST LEGO League championship, creating a vibrant and enriching atmosphere for all participants.
The event was graced by the President of Rwanda, His Excellency Paul Kagame, who underscored the country’s commitment to STEM education by gifting each participant a laptop.
This gesture was emblematic of Rwanda’s exceptional leadership in promoting STEM education and the importance of equipping the younger generation with necessary technological skills.
President Kagame, in his remarks, emphasised the critical role of robotics and artificial intelligence in learning science, engineering, technology, and teamwork. Gaspard Twagirayezu, the Minister of Education, while welcoming the President, highlighted that the FIRST LEGO League program extends beyond the competition, aiming to integrate these learning modules into classroom settings.
This initiative is poised to revolutionise learning by ensuring that every child has the opportunity to engage with and benefit from STEM education.
Olajide Ademola Ajayi, the founder of Coderina, in his address to the participants, stressed the importance of acquiring life skills that would prepare young individuals for the future landscape of work and entrepreneurship.
The Director-General of REB Dr. Mbarushimana Nelson, in declaring the event open, spoke on the significance of coding, robotics, and AI in shaping future engineers and innovators.
This championship not only served as a platform for showcasing talent and innovation but also emphasised the collaborative efforts of various countries and organisations in fostering a conducive environment for STEM education.
The success of the Nigerian teams in Rwanda is a stepping stone to further international exposure. Other teams that qualified from the Nigerian National Championship are set to attend the world festival in Houston, Texas, in April, while a host of other schools will participate in international robotics championships in Norway and Australia later in the year.
These opportunities highlight the Federal Ministry of Education’s dedication to youth empowerment through coding, AI, and robotics, showcasing a commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovators and engineers.
The achievements of the Nigerian schools on the international stage underline the potential and bright future of STEM education in Africa, bolstered by collaborative efforts across nations and organisations.
Dr Mrs Adenike Olodo (Director Technology and Science Education) Federal Ministry of Education, celebrating the achievement of the Nigerian team said, “From local heroes to global champions: Our students’ outstanding performance in international robotics competitions is a testament to their hard work, ingenuity, and unwavering dedication to excellence.”
The FIRST LEGO League (FLL) and FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) programs are now central to introducing young individuals to the fields of coding, robotics, and artificial intelligence. However, their value extends far beyond imparting technical skills.
These programs play a critical role in developing crucial social skills in participants, including teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and adaptability.
These skills are essential for preparing young minds to navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities they will encounter in the future workforce.
Organised by Coderina and supported by various partners and collaborators across East and West African countries, these programs are making a significant impact on STEM education in the region.
