By Bianca Iboma-Emefu
The Ilorin edition of the STEM Africa Fest ended successfully, inspiring over 500 students and educators across Kwara State to explore the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and artificial intelligence (AI).
This event was held at the Ilorin Innovation Hub for two days, featuring interactive workshops, demonstrations, and training sessions designed to ignite curiosity and foster future-ready skills.
IHS Nigeria Ltd in collaboration with STEAM UP Kwara and the Kwara State Government, sponsored the festival, with theme, “AI for Good,” which emphasized the role of technology in creating positive societal impacts. As the eighth city to host the pan-African initiative, Ilorin’s gathering marked a milestone in empowering Nigeria’s youth and educators to thrive in the digital age.
Dr. Adetola Salau, Special Adviser on STEM Education and Corporate Sector Engagement to the Minister of Education, highlighted the event’s significance, noting, “this festival demonstrates how innovation and education can come together to create opportunities. It’s more than just an event—it’s a launchpad for transformation.”
Titilope Oguntuga, Director of Sustainability at IHS Nigeria, underscored the company’s commitment to Nigeria’s digital economy, adding, “our children must be active contributors to technological development, not just consumers. From AI applications assisting the visually impaired to advancements in healthcare and education, we support initiatives that drive innovation.”
The first day featured a mini AI Bootcamp and STEM teacher training, empowering over 200 students and educators with practical skills and strategies for integrating STEM into classrooms. Day two brought a lively showcase of more than 20 interactive booths, workshops, and panel discussions, attracting a diverse crowd eager to learn about robotics, drone technology, coding, 3D printing, virtual reality, and more.
Notable speakers included Dr. Lawal Olalekan Olohungbebe, Kwara State Commissioner for Education, and Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, producer of Nigeria’s first AI-powered animation film, Makemation, who participated in a Fireside chat.
Jadesola Adedeji, co-organizer of STEM Africa Fest and founder of STEM METS, emphasized the festival’s role in shaping Africa’s future, stating, “this event equips our children with the tools and mindset to thrive in a technology-driven world. Their success is our future’s foundation.”
In line with its dedication to digital inclusion, IHS Nigeria Ltd donated free routers with one-year data subscriptions to participating public schools, ensuring continued access to online learning. The event also celebrated student achievements—Destiny Akande from Chapel School, won ₦100,000 in the AI quiz corner, while Olabode Ire Oluwa from Ivy Hill School, went home with a new tablet.
Educators praised the event’s relevance and impact. “It sparked a new level of enthusiasm among our students,” said Abubakar Wahab of Sango Secondary School. “Thanks to IHS Nigeria for providing the internet access that opens endless learning opportunities.”
Having held successful editions across Lagos, Accra, Freetown, Lusaka, Kigali, Nairobi, Abuja, and now Ilorin, STEM Africa Fest continues to be a catalyst for STEM education growth across Africa, partnering with governments and corporate bodies to build a future-ready workforce.
