ExxonMobil affiliates in Nigeria, in partnership with Junior Achievement (JA) Nigeria, have launched the third edition of the STEM Africa Initiative, a programme focused on preparing African students for careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and innovation.
The initiative, organised by the ExxonMobil Foundation and JA Nigeria, was launched in Abuja and is expected to bring together about 1,500 students between the ages of 14 and 18 through competitions, mentorship sessions, innovation workshops, AI learning, and design thinking activities.
Speaking during the launch event, Acting Executive Director of JA Nigeria, Olaolu Akogun, described the programme as a long-term investment in Africa’s future workforce and innovation ecosystem.
According to him, the STEM Africa Initiative has continued to expand since it officially started on May 9, 2024, at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja.
He said the programme was created to help young Africans see themselves as future scientists, engineers, inventors, and technology leaders capable of solving real problems across the continent.
Akogun noted that more than 4,000 students across 30 schools in Africa have already benefited from the initiative through STEM quiz competitions, experiential learning activities, innovation training, and mentorship programmes.
“This journey has been made possible through the generous support of the ExxonMobil Foundation and the collaboration of key stakeholders, including the FCT Secondary Education Board and the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation,” he said.
He added that the initiative is no longer limited to Nigeria, explaining that students in Mozambique, Namibia, and Angola are also participating in the programme as part of a broader African expansion strategy.
According to him, the continental expansion reflects a growing effort to develop a new generation of African innovators, scientists, engineers, and problem-solvers equipped for the digital economy.
Akogun also encouraged participating students to remain disciplined, curious, and innovative as they prepare for opportunities in the modern workforce.
Speaking at the event, General Manager, Socioeconomics and Community Affairs for ExxonMobil affiliates in Nigeria, Nigel Cookey-Gam, said STEM education has become increasingly important for economic growth and sustainable development.
He described the ExxonMobil Foundation STEM Africa Initiative as a strategic investment designed to help build the next generation of Nigerian and African leaders.
“In an increasingly interconnected world, proficiency in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, AI, and innovation skills is not just a pathway to personal success, but also a catalyst for national development,” he said.
Cookey-Gam disclosed that over 4,000 students in Nigeria have benefited from the programme within the last two years.
He also revealed that this year’s edition will include zonal competitions across Abuja and a wider online Kahoot STEM quiz competition aimed at increasing participation among students.
According to him, organisers are optimistic that Nigerian students will perform strongly at the regional finals scheduled to hold in South Africa later this year.
One of the major additions to this year’s edition is the integration of artificial intelligence and innovation-focused learning activities into the competition structure.
Cookey-Gam said AI is becoming increasingly relevant in education, technology development, and the future of work, making it important for students to gain early exposure to the field.
“This year, we are looking forward to a more intense competition and for Nigerian students to showcase their brilliance on the continental stage,” he added.
The organisers said the multi-phase programme will focus heavily on STEM education, AI literacy, mentorship, innovation-driven learning, and problem-solving skills that align with the demands of the 21st-century economy.
At the end of the competition segment held during the launch, Government Secondary School (GSS) Gwako emerged in first place, while School for the Gifted, Gwagwalada came second. Government Secondary School (GSS), Hajj Camps, Gwagwalada secured third position.
