INTERSWITCH, a leading integrated payments and digital commerce company, has reiterated its dedication to advancing science-related education in Nigeria and across Africa. The company made this pledge while announcing the winners of this year’s national science competition, InterswitchSPAK.
Now in its sixth edition, the competition was introduced to identify, celebrate, and support exceptional young talent among secondary school students in Nigeria and other African nations. As part of Interswitch’s commitment to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education, the contest is free and open to all secondary school students in the country.
This year’s competition witnessed participation from over 16,000 students across Nigeria. Henry Ndudu Ekong from Pegasus School, Akwa Ibom State, emerged as the overall winner. Eric Denyefa Omare from St. Gregory’s College, Lagos, secured second place, while David Umeojiaka from Graceland International School, Rivers State, finished third.
Ekong received a N15 million tertiary scholarship spread over five years, along with a laptop and monthly stipends. Omare and Umeojiaka were awarded a N10 million scholarship spread over three years and a N5 million scholarship for one year, respectively, with both also receiving laptops.
In addition to these top prizes, cash rewards were presented to students who placed fourth to ninth, as well as the top 18 semi-finalists and the top 27 contributing teachers. Moreover, the top 200 students from the preliminary stage of the competition received free JAMB e-PINS to register for this year’s UTME.
Cherry Eromosele, Executive Vice President (Group Marketing and Communications) at Interswitch, expressed excitement over the competition’s impact, emphasizing its role in strengthening students’ interest in STEM education.
“As a company, we believe Nigeria’s future lies in the minds and hands of our youths, especially those passionate about science and technology,” she stated. “This competition is designed to empower them through scholarships, skills, tools, and other essential resources they need to innovate and excel. Our investment in STEM education not only fuels individual success but also drives economic growth and societal progress, building a brighter future for Nigeria.”
The star prize winner, Henry Ndudu Ekong, expressed his gratitude to Interswitch, describing his victory as a great honor.
“Interswitch’s investment in our future will undoubtedly yield significant benefits, not just for us but for the country at large,” he remarked.
