OPay, in collaboration with Google and the Federal Government's 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme, has selected 10 teams as finalists for its National Innovation Challenge. The challenge, part of the OPay Scholars Programme, drew over 11,000 students and 2,200 teams, showcasing growing interest among young Nigerians in developing technology-driven solutions. The selected teams will proceed to an intensive boot camp to refine their solutions.
The National Innovation Challenge attracted significant participation, with 2,200 teams competing for a spot among the top 10. Initially, 48 teams were shortlisted for a six-week employability webinar aimed at enhancing their knowledge, workplace skills, and readiness for the next stage. The webinar provided valuable experience and skills for the teams, ultimately leading to the selection of the top 10 teams.
The 10 finalist teams are Lyrclip from Miva Open University; ResearchFlow, Olabisi Onabanjo University; CampusCheck, Federal University, Oye-Ekiti; Veripay, MOAUM, Benue State University; CoursePass, Lagos State University of Science and Technology; Teamcobuild, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka; Verified Hands, Ahmadu Bello University; SkoolConnectNG, Yaba College of Technology; Thrifty, Ahmadu Bello University; and Team Paye, Adeleke University.
According to OPay's CSR Manager, Itoro Udoh, the programme aims to create practical pathways for young Nigerians to convert their ideas and skills into opportunities. The initiative provides participants with practical experience, mentorship, and exposure to professionals in the technology and innovation ecosystem. Udoh emphasized that the programme's goal extends beyond the challenge, focusing on equipping young Nigerians with practical skills and mentorship.
The National Innovation Challenge has a total prize pool of N18 million, and the top 10 teams will now proceed to the boot camp before the final stage of the competition. During the boot camp, the teams will work with experienced mentors and industry professionals to develop, test, and refine their solutions. This intensive programme will help the teams prepare for the final stage and potential future opportunities.
OPay's National Innovation Challenge is part of its broader efforts to promote education, skills development, innovation, and employability among young Nigerians. The fintech company also offers opportunities beyond the competition, considering exceptionally performing students for its OPay Futures pipeline. This pipeline could provide access to three-month internship opportunities with OPay and other partner organisations.
The selection of the top 10 teams marks a significant milestone in the National Innovation Challenge. With the boot camp and final stage ahead, the teams will have the opportunity to further develop their solutions and compete for the top prize. The initiative demonstrates OPay's commitment to supporting young Nigerians in developing technology-driven solutions and promoting innovation and employability.
Key points
- The top 10 teams will proceed to an intensive boot camp to refine their solutions.
- The National Innovation Challenge has a total prize pool of N18 million.
- The initiative aims to equip young Nigerians with practical skills, mentorship, and pathways to opportunities.
