Abayomi Susan
Interswitch, one of Africa’s foremost technology companies committed to enabling individuals and communities to thrive through innovative solutions, has commenced the national pre-qualifying examinations for Season 8 of InterswitchSPAK, its flagship science competition for senior secondary school students across Nigeria.
The examination phase, which began on June 9, 2026, will conclude on June 16, 2026, with more than 21,000 students participating nationwide. The figure represents a 19.7 percent increase from the over 18,000 registrations recorded in Season 7, highlighting the growing popularity and impact of the initiative across the country.
Now in its eighth edition, InterswitchSPAK has solidified its reputation as one of Nigeria’s premier platforms for discovering, nurturing, and rewarding outstanding Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) talents at the secondary school level.
The national pre-qualifying examinations serve as the first stage of a comprehensive selection process aimed at identifying the country’s brightest STEM students. Successful candidates will advance through subsequent rounds, culminating in a televised grand finale where finalists will compete for scholarships and prizes valued at over ₦40 million.
Commenting on the commencement of the examinations, Cherry Eromosele, Executive Vice President, Group Marketing and Communications at Interswitch, expressed optimism about the sustained growth of the programme.
“The significant rise in registrations for Season 8 reflects the increasing interest among young Nigerians in STEM education and innovation. We are encouraged by the continued trust that students, parents, teachers, and schools place in InterswitchSPAK as a platform that promotes academic excellence and creates life-changing opportunities. We look forward to discovering another generation of exceptional talents who will help shape the future of science and technology in Nigeria,” she said.
This year, Interswitch introduced an expanded registration model that enabled parents and guardians to register their children directly, in addition to the traditional school-based registration system. The enhancement broadened access and participation, reinforcing the company’s commitment to inclusivity and equal educational opportunities for talented students nationwide.
Over the past seven seasons, InterswitchSPAK has made a significant impact through scholarships, mentorship programmes, and national recognition for exceptional students, while consistently advancing educational excellence and equity in STEM learning.
The overall winner of Season 8 will receive a ₦15 million tertiary education scholarship, including monthly stipends. The first runner-up will be awarded a ₦10 million scholarship, while the second runner-up will receive ₦5 million, both inclusive of monthly stipends. All scholarships will be disbursed over a five-year period.
Additionally, all nine finalists will receive brand-new laptops and other attractive prizes.
Season 8 also introduces enhanced rewards for finalists placed fourth to ninth, as well as increased recognition for the teachers of students who finish among the top nine. This expanded reward framework further demonstrates Interswitch’s commitment to celebrating academic achievement and acknowledging the crucial role educators play in developing future STEM leaders.
Through InterswitchSPAK, Interswitch continues to invest in Nigeria’s education sector, empowering the next generation of scientists, engineers, innovators, and problem-solvers who will drive national development and enhance the country’s global competitiveness.
