In a bid to cultivate excellence in science and bolster educational opportunities for students interested in Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Federal Government of Nigeria has inaugurated the 2023/2024 robotics competition with the aim of nurturing young minds in the field of science and technology.
Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, officially opened the workshop titled “First Lego League National Challenge in Robotics, Coding, and Artificial Intelligence” in Abuja, marking a crucial step towards promoting technological literacy among Nigerian students.
The event, held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, showcased students’ technical skills and creativity as they tackled real-world problems, inspiring the next generation of leaders in STEM fields across Nigeria’s unity schools and beyond.
Organized by the Federal Ministry of Education in collaboration with the Coderina Education and Technology Foundation, the championship offers participating students the opportunity to showcase their skills in robotics, coding, and AI.
Winners of the competition will receive medals and the chance to represent Nigeria in international championships in the United States, Australia, Norway, and Brazil, elevating the country’s presence on the global stage.
The Minister of Education, represented by Adenike Olodo Muyibat, the Director of the Technology and Science Education Department, lauded the efforts of mentors, teachers, principals, and organizers who dedicatedly guided and inspired young minds for the competition.
Emphasizing the importance of nurturing the next generation of innovators and coders, the Minister acknowledged the commitment and vitality of such efforts for the continual technological advancement of society.
The Minister stressed that events like the First Lego League play a crucial role in modern education by fostering creativity, critical thinking, innovation, and technological literacy among youth.
This year’s theme, “MASTERPIECE,” signifies the potential to shape future leaders and innovators, emphasizing the intricate connection between Science, Technology, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) and daily lives.
The Minister highlighted the evolving education system, aligning with the dynamic needs of the 21st century, and the integration of robotics education into the curriculum to enrich students’ academic experience and equip them for a digitally advancing world.
Commending Coderina Education and Technology Foundation for their initiative, the Minister announced a scholarship scheme for the top three performing teams in their first university year. Additionally, Coderina instituted the Leadership in Tech award for deserving principals, providing recognition and financial support for their contributions to STEM education.