Interswitch, a leading provider of integrated payments and digital commerce solutions in Africa, has announced the nine finalists of the seventh edition of its flagship Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, the InterswitchSPAK National Science Competition. The semi-final stage has concluded successfully, bringing the most outstanding young scientists closer to Nigeria’s premier STEM contest finale.
Starting with over 18,000 registered senior secondary students across Nigeria, the competition advanced through a rigorous computer-based qualifying test, which selected 81 top students from all six geopolitical zones. After initial rounds, 27 semi-finalists emerged, marking a significant milestone on the path to the grand finale.
From this competitive pool, nine exceptional students have now been chosen as finalists, showcasing remarkable talent, discipline, and scientific excellence demonstrated throughout the multi-stage selection process.
The finalists are 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.
The remaining finalists include 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.
Commenting on the milestone, Cherry Eromosele, Executive Vice President, Group Marketing and Communications, Interswitch, stated, “InterswitchSPAK was created to identify, inspire, and reward excellence in STEM education while equipping young Africans with the skills needed to solve real-world problems. These nine finalists have demonstrated exceptional brilliance, resilience, and a passion for innovation. They represent the future of science, technology, and problem-solving in Africa.”
The grand finale promises to be an exciting event, with winners earning scholarships and prizes valued at over ₦35 million. The overall champion will secure a ₦15 million tertiary education scholarship over five years, a brand-new laptop, and monthly stipends. The first runner-up will receive a ₦10 million scholarship over three years along with a laptop, while the second runner-up will be awarded a ₦5 million scholarship for one year plus a laptop.
Additional cash prizes will be presented to finalists ranked fourth through ninth, alongside recognition for the top 18 semi-finalists and 27 outstanding teachers who mentored the students.
Now in its seventh year, InterswitchSPAK has grown beyond a competition to become a national platform for nurturing the next generation of scientists, engineers, innovators, and problem-solvers. Through sustained investment in STEM education, Interswitch continues its commitment to empowering young Africans with the skills necessary to drive innovation, economic growth, and socio-economic development across the continent.
Viewers can watch the grand finale episode on Sunday, 25 January 2026, on DSTV Africa Magic Family (Channel 154) at 6:00 pm, or on AIT Network at 5:30 pm. Repeat broadcasts are scheduled for Tuesdays at 5:00 pm on DSTV Africa Magic Family (Channel 154). Episodes are also available on YouTube, Facebook, and X via @InterswitchSPAK every Sunday at 6:00 pm, and on LinkedIn via @InterswitchGroup at 5:30 pm.
