Ikenna Ikechukwu MTN mPulse Spelling Bee

Ikenna Ikechukwu Wins 2024 MTN mPulse Spelling Bee

The 6th edition of the InterswitchSPAK TV show is lighting up screens across the country, putting Africa’s brightest young science minds in the spotlight. Since the season premiere on Sunday, October 20, 2024, the competition has been a thrilling display of jaw-dropping brilliance, unrelenting determination, and groundbreaking innovation, as Nigeria’s top science students vie for the ultimate STEM crown.

The competition has been nothing short of electric, brimming with suspense, drama, and unforgettable moments as 18 exceptional semi-finalists have emerged after six thrilling episodes.

These young stars have brought their A-game, proving that African talent is ready to take on the world. With impressive displays of speed, accuracy, knowledge, and problem-solving prowess in STEM subjects, they’ve showcased just how sharp and innovative they truly are.

The contestants are rewriting the narrative of what it means to be a STEM genius in Africa. As the weeks roll on, the stakes climb higher, and the excitement intensifies, offering us a front-row seat to watch these future trailblazers leave their mark.

The 18 semi-finalists who have emerged thus far from the intense competition include Ayomiposi Igbaroola of Greater Tomorrow International College, Ondo State; Nifesimi Itamuseye from Fountain International High School, Ekiti State; Divine Hosea representing Peace College, Iju, Lagos; Elvis Ekwelem of Graceland International School, Rivers State; Chidera Ejidike from St. Gregory College, Ikoyi, Lagos; Damilare Fakorede and King David Odey, both from Greater Tomorrow International College, Ondo State; David Babalola of Brainfield College, Salolo, Lagos; Chinaza Ejeahalaka from Marist International Secondary School, Owerri, Imo State; Samuel Ayano of Apt Scholars Universal College, Ogun State; Chimfumnanya Aghaduno from Penny International College, Lagos State; and Chimamanda Agbanusi from Rainbow College, Ogun State.

Also making the cut are Nwachukwu Ebubechukwu from Marist Brothers’ Juniorate B, Abia State; ThankGod Onyekachi Madu from His Grace High School, Enugu State; Ndudu Ekong Henry from Pegasus High School Eket., Akwa Ibom State; Denyefa Omare from St. Gregory’s College, Ikoyi, Lagos State; Jane Onwuli from Graceland International School, Rivers State and Emmanuel Olabiyi from Apt Scholars Universal College, Ogun State.

The competition heats up as the semi-finalists gear up for the next stage, battling fiercely for a coveted spot in the top 9. With the stakes higher than ever, they inch closer to the ultimate prizes, hoping to claim the glory and the grand rewards.

Here’s what’s in store for this year’s top contenders:

    1st Place: N15 million tertiary scholarship (spread over five years), a laptop, and a monthly stipend.

    2nd Place: N10 million scholarship (spread over three years) and a laptop.

    3rd Place: N5 million scholarship (for one year) and a laptop.

    4th to 9th Places: Impressive cash rewards for their remarkable efforts along with laptops.

    Top 18 Semi-Finalists: Cash prizes awarded to recognise their achievements.

    Top 27 Contributing Teachers: Cash rewards to honour their dedication and impact.

Through InterswitchSPAK, Interswitch has inspired approximately 100,000 students to pursue STEM careers, awarded millions in scholarships, and nurtured a vibrant community of young innovators and change makers.

With six episodes aired so far this season, the drama is far from over. The semi-finalists have shown exceptional promise, but only one will emerge as the champion, claiming the grand prize and the glory of being Africa’s next STEM prodigy.

As the competition heats up, don’t miss any of the thrilling moments. Tune in to catch all the action every Sunday at 5:30 p.m. on AIT Network and 6:00 p.m. on DSTV Africa Magic Family Channel 154, with repeat broadcasts on Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m. on the same channel.

Stay tuned for more thrilling episodes of InterswitchSPAK 6.0 and bask in the brilliance and intrigue as the journey to finding Africa’s next STEM champion continues!