Ozolua Grammar School, Ologbo, Edo State, has emerged champion of the South-South STEM Robotics Challenge, defeating eight other schools in the keenly contested grand finale held in Effurun, Delta State.
The 16-week programme, themed “Robotics for a Sustainable and Inclusive Skilled Economy,” was designed to build technical competence among students while encouraging creativity and problem-solving.
It was facilitated by Contego Servo, Odyssey Educational Foundation, and Phoenix Girls Tech Foundation, with sponsorship from the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).
Robotics as a Pathway to Innovation
Speaking at the event, Dr. Elizabeth Eterigho, CEO of Phoenix Girls Tech Foundation, described robotics as more than just a subject but “a gateway to innovation and critical thinking” that equips students with skills vital for the 21st-century workforce.
“Over the past four months, teachers and students have journeyed through discovery, innovation, and empowerment. The projects showcased today are not just about robotics but about creativity, teamwork, and determination, proving the transformative power of STEM education,” Eterigho noted.
She commended NCDMB for its sponsorship, adding that the initiative lays the foundation for an economy that values skills, sustainability, and inclusiveness.
NCDMB and Stakeholder Reactions
Representing NCDMB, Mr. Weyinmi Ebiyon said the board initiated the programme to raise the standard of education and prepare young Nigerians for global opportunities.
Similarly, Mrs. Rose Ezewu, Delta State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, applauded the organisers and assured that the state would adopt the model to expand robotics and STEM education across its schools.
Winners and Runners-Up
1st Place: Ozolua Grammar School, Ologbo, Edo State
2nd Place: Iwere Secondary School, Koko, Warri North, Delta State
3rd Place: Nana Model College, Warri South, Delta State
Other participating schools included Community Secondary School, Kalio-Ama Okrika; Community Secondary School, Rumuoro Ogbakiri, Emuoha (Rivers); Ajoki Secondary School, Edo; Okotie Eboh Grammar School, Sapele (Delta); CSS Okutukutu/Etegwe and Epie National High School, Kpansia (Bayelsa).
Teachers React
A visibly elated Mr. Okoh Isaac, a teacher from Ozolua Grammar School, expressed gratitude for the victory and urged the government to deepen investment in technology-driven education.
“This win shows what our children can achieve when given the right tools. With more investment, Nigeria can build a generation of problem-solvers through technology,” he said.
