The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), in partnership with three nongovernmental organizations, has concluded a 16-week Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) training programme on robotics for selected secondary schools in four states of the Niger Delta.

The programme, themed “Robotics for a Sustainable and Inclusive Skilled Economy,” was designed to encourage students to explore complex concepts in physics, mathematics, and computer science in practical and engaging ways.

At the grand finale held in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State last weekend, Ozolua Grammar School, Ologbo in Edo State, emerged overall winner, while Iwere Secondary School, Koko (Warri North, Delta State) came second, and Nana Model College, Warri South, Delta State, took third place.

The initiative was sponsored by NCDMB in collaboration with Contego Servo, Odyssey Educational Foundation, and Phoenix Girls Tech Foundation. Students were drawn from schools across Rivers, Edo, Delta, and Bayelsa States, including Community Secondary School, Kalio-Ama Okrika; Ozolua Grammar School, Ologbo; Iwere College, Koko; Nana Model College, Warri; and Epie National High School, Kpansia, among others.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Weyinmi Ebiyon of NCDMB said the training was conceived to raise the standard of education in the country. “On behalf of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, I thank the board that has put this together. Let us put into use the knowledge acquired from here,” he stated, while commending the resource persons and trainers.

Also addressing the gathering, Delta State Commissioner for Secondary Schools, Mrs. Rose Ezewu, applauded the effort. “We commend NCDMB and the consultants for putting this training together for our young students. The state government will key into this programme to elevate the knowledge of our students in STEM robotics education,” she assured.

In her remarks, Dr. Elizabeth Jumoke Eterigho, CEO of Phoenix Girls Tech Foundation and consultant to NCDMB, explained the vision behind the training. “Robotics is more than just a tool for learning; it is a gateway to understanding the world around us. Through robotics, students can explore complex concepts in physics, mathematics, and computer science in a tangible and engaging manner,” she said.

Dr. Eterigho emphasized the transformative power of STEM. “Over the past four months, we have embarked on an inspiring journey of discovery, innovation, and empowerment. Teachers and students have come together not only to learn the fundamentals of robotics, programming, and applied STEM, but also to envision a future where knowledge translates into skills, and skills translate into solutions.”

Showcasing the participants’ work, she added: “The projects and prototypes you see today are not just exercises in robotics; they are expressions of creativity, teamwork, and determination that reflect the power of STEM education in shaping lives and societies.”

Highlighting inclusivity, she continued: “This programme has shown us that our young people can dream, design, and deliver solutions that matter. We have witnessed how both boys and girls can thrive equally when given the right opportunities, and how teachers can be transformed into facilitators of innovation rather than mere transmitters of knowledge. Together, we are laying the foundation for an economy that values skills, sustainability, and inclusiveness. This is what NCDMB has achieved as the sole sponsor of this programme.”

Closing her remarks, Dr. Eterigho encouraged participants to apply their new skills. “You are the true drivers of change. As we close this phase of learning, let us open a new chapter of application. Let us go back to our schools, our classrooms, and our communities with the conviction that STEM is not just a subject — it is a tool for solving real problems and building a sustainable future.”

The grand finale also featured an exhibition of innovative student projects, including fire alarms, a firefighting machine, and a smart traffic light system designed to protect traffic officials and reduce road accidents — all products of the intensive 16-week robotics training.