Students of Government Secondary School, Gwarinpa, Abuja, have secured global recognition after finishing fourth overall and emerging the highest-ranked African team at the For Good Youth Challenge Robotics competition held in Geneva, Switzerland.
The students, who competed under the banner of Team Bright Stars, achieved the feat in the junior category after developing robotics and Artificial Intelligence-powered solutions designed to tackle practical challenges in agriculture, safety and emergency response.
The school disclosed the achievement on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by the team to the headquarters of LEADERSHIP Group in Abuja.
Leading the delegation, the school’s Principal, Mr. Abubakar Ajayi Ozovehe, attributed the success to months of intensive training in robotics, coding and programming, which equipped the students with the skills to design innovative technological solutions.
He said the school deliberately introduced technology-driven learning alongside sports and other extracurricular activities to encourage creativity, discipline and innovation among students.
According to Ozovehe, the initiative was aimed at moving beyond conventional teaching methods by creating platforms where students could discover and develop their talents.
He explained that the introduction of robotics, sports and other creative programmes had improved students’ participation in school activities by giving them a stronger sense of belonging.
The principal described robotics as a critical field in which Nigeria must invest if it hopes to remain competitive in the rapidly evolving global technology landscape.
He noted that the team’s project in Geneva focused on developing robotic solutions capable of supporting agricultural activities such as planting and harvesting, as well as handling hazardous materials during emergency situations.
Ozovehe also revealed that the school had participated in an international Artificial Intelligence competition in Geneva the previous year, where its students designed an earthquake rescue robot capable of locating victims during disasters.
He called for greater investment in robotics education across the country, stressing that the high cost of equipment remained a major obstacle for many schools.
According to him, stronger government support and partnerships with the private sector would help expand access to robotics education and better prepare Nigerian students for future technological demands.
Receiving the delegation, the Senior Vice Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of LEADERSHIP Group, Azubuike Ishiekwene, congratulated the students, describing their achievement as a source of pride for both Nigeria and the African continent.
He urged the students to remain focused, continue striving for excellence and appreciate the contributions of those who supported their journey.
Ishiekwene added that competing on the global stage had broadened the students’ horizons and exposed them to greater opportunities for future success.
Speaking on behalf of the team, Moshood Faizan Oladokun said they anticipated stiff competition in Geneva and prepared extensively before travelling, adding that intensive coaching played a significant role in their performance.
Another team member, Ojini Chibuike King David, described the recognition as an unforgettable experience, while Abubakar Ohunene said the trip marked her first international journey and gave her an inspiring exposure to the global stage.
Also reflecting on the experience, Abubakar Akbar Adinoyi said competing abroad provided valuable lessons and broadened his perspective.
The team was accompanied by the FCT Secondary Education Board’s Robotics Desk Officer, Mrs. Suleiman Aishatu, lead coach Mr. Toba Mayowa Jerry and assistant coach Ms. Iyinyemi Dorcas Oluwafisayo.
