Interswitch has reached a major milestone in its flagship Corporate Social Responsibility initiative with the announcement of nine finalists for the seventh edition of the InterswitchSPAK National Science Competition. The contest, widely regarded as Nigeria’s most prestigious STEM competition for secondary school students, began with over 18,000 registered participants from across the country.
The competition progressed through a challenging computer-based qualifying test that narrowed the field to 81 students representing Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. From there, 27 semi-finalists emerged, showcasing exceptional talent and discipline. The selection process culminated in nine finalists who will now compete for top honours and scholarships worth more than ₦35 million.
Brandspur Brand News reports that the finalists include Lyon Awhaisoba of Apt Scholars Universal College, Ogun State; Naetochukwu Ochi of Jesuit Memorial College, Rivers State; Saint Riman of Adedokun International Schools, Ogun State; Emmanuel Ashaolu of Welkin International School, Ogun State; and Gbolamiga Atekoja of Heritreats Private Secondary School, Ondo State. Completing the list are David Solomonezemma of Deeper Life High School, Enugu State; Eke David of Marist Brothers’ Juniorate, Abia State; Chukwubudem Ezeobi of British Spring College, Anambra State; and David Okorie of Caleb International College, Lagos State.
Speaking on the significance of the event, Cherry Eromosele, Executive Vice President, Group Marketing and Communications at Interswitch, said the competition continues to identify and nurture the next generation of African innovators. “InterswitchSPAK was created to inspire excellence in STEM and equip young Africans with the skills to solve real-world challenges. These nine finalists have demonstrated exceptional brilliance and creativity and represent the future of science and technology in Nigeria,” she said.
The grand finale, scheduled for Sunday, January 25, 2026, will see the finalists compete for a ₦15 million tertiary education scholarship spread over five years, a brand-new laptop, and monthly stipends. The first runner-up will receive a ₦10 million scholarship over three years and a laptop, while the second runner-up will earn a ₦5 million one-year scholarship and a laptop. Additional cash prizes will be awarded to other finalists, and recognition will also be given to the top 18 semi-finalists and the 27 teachers whose mentorship guided the students.
Now in its seventh year, InterswitchSPAK has grown into a national platform fostering scientific talent, innovation, and problem-solving skills. Through sustained investment in STEM education, Interswitch aims to empower young Nigerians with the tools and knowledge to drive technological and economic progress across Africa.
The grand finale will be broadcast live on DSTV Africa Magic Family (Channel 154) at 6:00pm and on AIT Network at 5:30pm, allowing viewers nationwide to witness the crowning of the next generation of STEM leaders.
