In a groundbreaking event, the first Avishkaar National Robotics Competition, held in partnership with WAAQ Fusion Integrated Services, has positioned Nigerian students to showcase their skills on a global stage. Winners of the competition are set to represent Nigeria at the Avishkaar League in Delhi, India, in January 2025.
The event, themed “The Rise of the Machines,” drew participation from 10 schools across Nigeria, highlighting the growing emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education. The competition featured three categories—IRC League (robotics construction), Avishkaar Makeathon (engineering innovation), and Gamathon (coding challenges)—allowing students to tackle real-world problems using robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and coding.
“This initiative is more than a competition; it’s a platform to inspire future innovators and problem-solvers who will shape Nigeria’s future,” said Mrs. Qudrah Jimoh, co-founder of WAAQ Fusion Integrated Services.
Participating schools impressed with their innovative solutions. Graine Royale International High School, WAAQ Team Lagos, and Heritage Global Academy secured victories in the IRC League categories, while Al-Azemaah Schools, Indian Language School, and Olive Crescent Scholars Academy emerged as winners in Makeathon and Gamathon.
Director of Olive Crescent Scholars Academy, Mrs. Aminu Maryam, applauded the hands-on learning approach provided by Avishkaar kits. “This competition showcases the transformative power of STEM education in nurturing critical thinkers and innovators,” she said.
Mr. Olanrewaju Jimoh, co-founder of WAAQ Fusion, emphasized the need for government intervention in STEM education. “Private schools are leading in adopting these technologies, but public schools need more support. Collaboration and grants are crucial to making robotics and coding accessible to all,” he stated.
Jimoh announced plans to make the competition an annual event, expanding participation to include global STEM initiatives like the World Robotics Olympiad.
STEM advocate and judge at the event, Chioma Omolaye, expressed excitement at the participants’ performance. “These children have exceeded expectations. Their understanding of problem statements and innovative solutions are inspiring,” she noted, urging parents to incorporate STEM activities into their children’s education.
As the winning teams prepare to represent Nigeria on the international stage, the Avishkaar National Robotics Competition underscores the nation’s growing potential in technology-driven education.
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