The highly anticipated 7th edition of InterswitchSPAK, the prestigious National Science Competition, is now open for registration, offering a massive N30 million scholarship pool to brilliant young minds. Powered by Interswitch, a leading integrated payments and digital commerce company in Africa, this competition is designed to unearth academic excellence and ignite innovation among African students.
InterswitchSPAK goes beyond traditional competitions; it’s a strategic platform that equips students with the essential skills to tackle real-world problems while fostering a deep passion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) — crucial for Africa’s future. The competition features a multi-stage format, commencing with rigorous qualifying examinations, culminating in an engaging TV quiz show showcasing the top 81 students. This ensures a thorough evaluation of participants’ knowledge and skills, providing an exciting experience for both contestants and viewers.
This year, the stakes are higher than ever. The overall winner will receive a life-changing N15 million tertiary scholarship spread over five years, a laptop, and monthly stipends. The first runner-up will be awarded a substantial N10 million scholarship over three years, alongside a laptop, while the second runner-up secures a N5 million scholarship for one year and a laptop. In addition to these top prizes, cash awards will be given to students finishing from 4th to 9th place, the top 18 semi-finalists, and the top 27 teachers who have demonstrated exceptional dedication in mentoring their students.
Cherry Eromosele, Executive Vice President and Group Chief Marketing and Corporate Communications at Interswitch Group, highlighted the initiative’s impact: “InterswitchSPAK continues to be a powerful platform for discovering and nurturing Africa’s future innovators. Through this competition, we’re doing more than awarding scholarships; we’re igniting a movement of critical thinkers and changemakers who will lead the continent into a new era of technological and socio-economic transformation.”
Since its inception in 2017, InterswitchSPAK has inspired thousands of young Africans to pursue ambitious dreams in science and technology. As the 7th edition gets underway, it continues to serve as a beacon of opportunity and a key driver of talent development across the continent.
Secondary schools across Nigeria can register their Year 11 students (aged 14-17) for the competition at https://www.interswitchspak.com/. Registration closes on June 7th, 2025, so interested participants are encouraged to act quickly. Stay informed about the registration process and other updates by visiting the official website and Interswitch’s social media channels.