Yesterday marked a historic victory for St. John Vianney Science College, Igbariam, as they clinched the national championship title in the 2024 National Girls in ICT Competition with their pioneering virtual reality project. This competition, spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy, is a platform for technological innovation among female students in secondary schools across Nigeria.
Their groundbreaking project, dubbed M-Tag VR, offers users an immersive journey through renowned landmarks such as Zuma Rock while imparting intriguing cultural knowledge about Nigerian tribes. The triumphant team, comprising Immaculate Ebube Ikegwuonu, Camilla Anyadike, and Nweke-Nonso Oluchi, under the guidance of their coach, John Onuigbo, outshone teams from all 36 states.
The team’s prowess was evident throughout the competition. They initially dominated the Anambra state competition, then advanced to win the Southeastern regional championship, overcoming teams from Ebonyi, Imo, Abia, and Enugu. Their exceptional project and skills consistently impressed the judges, leading to a thrilling national victory against formidable opponents from the country’s six geopolitical zones. Rivers and Lagos states clinched the second and third positions, respectively.
In the wake of their victory, team member Immaculate Ebube Ikegwuonu, still brimming with excitement, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity and the support from their school in encouraging them to pursue ICT careers. She hopes their victory will inspire other girls to follow suit. The director of St. John Vianney Science College, Rev Fr Emmanuel Obimma (Ebube Muo Nso), expressed immense pride in their achievement, stating that it reflects the school’s commitment to empowering young women in STEM fields and their belief in harnessing technology for good.
Idika Chidinma Ukpai, Operations Lead of Kodex Africa, praised the team’s dedication and talent, noting that they demonstrated not only their technical skills but also their innovative and problem-solving abilities. Kodex Africa, which provided support to the Anambra state team, facilitates the National Girls in ICT Competition through implementing hubs in each state, ensuring a seamless competition process.
