The federal government has kicked off the 2023/2024 robotics competition for students to nurture excellence in science and boost educational opportunities in Artificial Intelligence.

Education minister Tahir Mamman, while declaring the workshop open in Abuja on Wednesday, commended the mentors and teachers for their commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovators and coders.

Mr Mammam commended the mentors, teachers, principals and organisers for their tireless work behind the scenes, guiding and inspiring the young minds to qualify for the competition.

He said their commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovators and coders was vital for the continued technological advancement of our society.

The minister noted that integrating robotics education into the curriculum would not only enrich students’ academic experience but also equip them with the skills necessary to thrive in a world that is becoming increasingly digital.

He said this would also bring robotics education to the reach of every learner and expose them to the nitty-gritty of Artificial Intelligence (ΑΙ).

The minister commended Coderina Education and Technology Foundation for starting a scholarship scheme for the best three performing teams in their first year in the university.

The national coordinator of the event, Olajide Ademola-Ajayi, said all Unity schools were represented in the competition, as well as many other schools across Nigeria.

He said the competition was taking place across all six geopolitical zones, and the winner would get medals and represent Nigeria in the international championship in the U.S., Australia, Norway and Brazil.

“We have about 56 schools presently here, and they are participating in two different Programmes,’’ he said

 (NAN)