It begins much earlier, when children learn to ask difficult questions, pay attention to the world around them and think seriously about how everyday problems can be solved.

Those habits matter more today than they did a decade ago. Technology is changing how people learn, work and live, but progress still depends on people who can think clearly, weigh evidence and explain their ideas. Those qualities do not appear overnight. They grow when young people are given reasons to think beyond the classroom and engage with issues that affect society.

For the past seven years, the SystemSpecs Children’s Day Essay Competition, CDEC, has invited young Nigerians aged 9 to 16 to take on issues of national importance and think through how technology might improve lives and strengthen communities.

Since its launch in 2020, it has drawn more than 20,000 entries from across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, with female participation growing by 36.5 per cent over the past three years.

Numbers like these are easy to recite and just as easy to forget. What actually shows whether an initiative like this works is what happens to the people who took part, long after the certificates have been handed out. Seven years in, three stories make a reasonably strong case, starting with the most recent.

Jemimah Akande, a Grade 11 student, took part in the 2026 edition. She did not finish among the prize winners, but the experience stayed with her well past the result.

Writing about it afterwards on LinkedIn, Jemimah described how researching the role of data in optimising transportation systems pulled her into logistics, urban planning and predictive analysis all at once. What struck her most was how much of the infrastructure people rely on daily runs on data that most people never think about.

Although Jemimah had not taken home the top prize, she called the essay “an incredible learning experience” that sharpened her interest in data analysis, adding that “the journey of learning never stops.”

That same thread runs through several alumni of the initiative including Agiounime Agianpuye. He finished among the Top 10 finalists in CDEC’s first edition, back in 2020, and looking back now, says what stayed with him longest had nothing to do with prizes.

“Of everything SystemSpecs’ Children Day Essay Competition gave me,” he says, “the one thing money simply cannot buy is the confidence that I earned. There is a real difference between being told that you are capable and proving it to yourself.”

That confidence went further than self-belief. The discipline of researching a position, questioning his own assumptions and building an argument that could survive scrutiny changed how he works through problems generally.

“Writing for CDEC taught me to argue with myself first: to challenge my own assumptions and build a case strong enough to survive critique.”

Today, that habit of mind runs through his work in healthcare management, and feeds a growing interest in health informatics and data-driven care. He no longer describes the essay as a competition entry. He calls it “a personal manifesto.” What his story shows is simpler than a grand claim about talent: encouragement, well timed, tends to compound.

For Toluwase Shoniran, who placed third in the senior category of that same 2020 edition, the competition marked the start of something specific rather than something abstract.

He has since moved through computer engineering, data science and artificial intelligence, one step following fairly directly from the last. The tablet he won as a prize became the machine on which he taught himself Python straight after secondary school. That early habit carried him into machine learning, into datathon wins, and eventually into founding Clariphi, a startup applying artificial intelligence to organisational knowledge management.

On their own, these are just three good stories. Put next to each other, they start to look like a pattern rather than a coincidence. A data enthusiast who found her subject earlier than most. A future health systems specialist who learned to interrogate his own thinking before anyone else got the chance to.

A founder who turned one well-timed device into a career. None of them set out with the same destination in mind, but each was pushed, at roughly the same age, to stop taking the world in front of them at face value.

This may be the most durable value in an initiative like CDEC. The essays get judged within weeks. The habits behind them, curiosity, the willingness to research properly, the discipline of building an argument, tend to stay with a person for years after the certificate is filed away.

Technology alone will not solve very much on its own. It still takes someone asking the right question, testing an idea against evidence and pushing a solution through to something workable, wherever they end up working.

Building those habits while a child is still working out what interests them is not something that pays off immediately. It is closer to an investment that compounds quietly, for a long time, before anyone notices the return.

That is really what SystemSpecs’ Children Day Essay Competition is doing, past the ceremony each June. Every essay is a chance for a young Nigerian to think seriously about a real problem and come away believing their own ideas are worth building on.

Most participants will not become software engineers, data scientists or founders. They will become doctors, teachers, lawyers, civil servants, and people running businesses that have nothing to do with technology. What they are more likely to carry with them, whatever they end up doing, is a habit of asking a real question before accepting the first answer they are given.

Years from now, many people will not remember who won the 2026 edition of this competition.

They may, however, benefit from a generation of problem solvers who first found their curiosity and their confidence here, because someone asked them, while they were still young enough to be shaped by the question, to think seriously about the future they wanted to help build.

The post Beyond the Prize: How the SystemSpecs Children’s Day Essay Competition is Helping Shape Nigeria’s Next-Gen Problem Solvers appeared first on Tech | Business | Economy.

Now in its seventh year, CDEC is far more than an essay competition. It is one of SystemSpecs’ flagship ESG initiatives, a deliberate, long-term investment in shaping a generation of young Nigerians who see technology not as a distant abstraction, but as a living tool for transforming their country, one sector at a time.

Each year’s theme is carefully chosen to direct young minds toward a pressing national challenge, inviting them not merely to describe problems, but to think critically, propose solutions, and begin to see themselves as architects of Nigeria’s future.

This year’s theme: “Achieving Safer and More Effective Transportation in Nigeria Through Information Technology”, challenged participants aged 9 to 16 to engage Nigeria’s transportation sector through the lens of innovation, safety, efficiency, and national development.

A Programme Built for Depth and Authenticity

The CDEC process is intentionally rigorous. Submissions opened in February, giving participants ample time to research, reflect, and craft thoughtful responses.

Shortlisted essays then advanced to a second-level evaluation, a direct engagement process through which judges could understand the thinking, background, and personal motivation behind each submission.

Mrs. Bukola Adeboye, group head of Corporate Services at SystemSpecs, described the evaluation process as one of the competition’s most defining features.

“The second-level evaluation remains one of the most important aspects of the competition because it validates authenticity while helping judges understand the heart, background, and transformative story behind each essay. The conversations this year were deeply insightful and inspiring,” she said.

She also noted the impressive quality of ideas that emerged this year.

“What stood out was how thoughtfully these children connected technology with practical solutions across road, rail, air, and water transportation. Many proposed ideas around commuter safety, digital monitoring, emergency response systems, traffic coordination, and accessibility,” she added.

A National Movement Gaining Momentum

Since its launch in 2020, SystemSpecs CDEC has received over 20,000 essay submissions from children across all six geopolitical zones, a testament to the growing hunger among Nigerian youth to engage meaningfully with the challenges shaping their country.

The 2026 edition sustained this momentum with strong, nationwide representation, and a continued rise in female participation that has grown by 36.5 per cent over the past three years – reflecting a competition that is becoming more inclusive with every passing year.

This year’s top 50 finalists across both the Junior and Senior categories were drawn from multiple geopolitical zones, underscoring the truly national character of the initiative.

Meet the 2026 Winners

In the Senior Category, Obioha Pharez of The Court Hill College, Lagos, claimed first place, followed by Abiodun Ayomide of Oshodi Comprehensive Senior High School, Lagos, and Eruba Samuel of Deeper Life High School, Port Harcourt Campus, Rivers State.

In the Junior Category, Idris Zainab of You-Nik International Technopreneurship Secondary School, Lafia, Nasarawa State, emerged as the winner. Sanu Anjolaoluwa Adaora of Kesbe International School, Lagos, and Dieke Oluomachukwu Rachael of Divine Love Secondary School, Enugu, followed as first and second runners-up respectively.

Category winners will receive ₦1 million in cash, alongside laptops, educational resources, one-year internet subscriptions, and additional prizes. Second and third-place finalists will each receive laptops in addition to cash prizes of ₦750,000 and ₦500,000 respectively, with consolation prizes for finalists placed fourth through tenth.

Obele Community Senior High School was named the winning school in the Senior Category, while You-Nik International Technopreneurship Secondary School, Lafia, claimed top honours in the Junior Category. Both schools will receive 10 laptops each.

Investing in Nigeria’s Future, One Generation at a Time

Mr. ‘DeRemi Atanda, Managing Director of Remita, reflected on the broader purpose of CDEC within SystemSpecs’ commitment to national development.

“CDEC continues to show that Nigerian children are observant, solution-driven, and capable of contributing meaningfully to conversations around national development. For us, this initiative is about investing in future leaders and innovators who can think critically about the country’s future,” he said.

Mr. Udy Ngele, managing director of HumanManager, connected this year’s transportation theme to the wider imperative of digital transformation.

“Digital transformation should not happen only within workplaces. It must also reflect in the ease, safety, comfort, and efficiency people experience daily while moving across the country. Smarter transportation systems ultimately improve productivity, workforce wellbeing, and human capital outcomes,” he stated.

Mr. Atanda also acknowledged the emotional weight of this year’s celebration amid growing national concerns over the safety of children.

“While we celebrate the brilliance and promise of Nigerian children today, we stand in solidarity with families affected by insecurity and continue to hope and pray for the safe return of every child in captivity. Every child deserves the freedom to dream, learn, grow, and thrive safely,” he said.

SystemSpecs reaffirmed its commitment to CDEC as an enduring platform for discovery, purpose, and national transformation – one that will continue nurturing the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers who will help define the direction of Nigeria’s future in an increasingly technology-driven world.

The post Meet Winners of SystemSpecs CDEC 2026 appeared first on Tech | Business | Economy.

For the sixth consecutive year, the CDEC will provide Nigerian children aged 9 to 16 a platform to showcase their creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills through the application of technology in addressing real-world issues.

As a cornerstone of SystemSpecs’ Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, the CDEC has, for the past five years, promoted technological awareness and fostered innovation among young Nigerians. The competition aims to nurture local talent and equip the next generation of leaders with the skills necessary to thrive in Nigeria’s digital economy.

Mrs. Bukola Adeoye, Executive Director of Corporate Services at SystemSpecs Holdings Limited, expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming edition:

“For Nigeria to compete effectively on a global scale, the next generation must be equipped with the requisite technological skills from an early stage. Therefore, over the past five years, we have been dedicated to promoting technological awareness nationwide, highlighting the significance of initiatives like this in shaping Nigeria’s digital future through the CDEC. We are happy to announce that the upcoming edition of CDEC will provide all Nigerian children with another opportunity to explore technology and develop crucial skills for the future.”

With over three decades of experience in ICT development, SystemSpecs has continually invested in nurturing young talent, helping to create sustainable change in the tech sector.

This competition reflects the company’s long-term vision of promoting technological literacy and capacity development, positioning Nigeria to compete globally in the digital economy.

The competition, which has become increasingly competitive, is expected to attract participants from all 36 states and the FCT, as students are eager to showcase their innovative ideas.

The next edition promises to engage new schools, students, and parents while continuing to inspire thousands of young minds across the country.

CDEC has gained widespread national acceptance, drawing participation from both public and private schools across Nigeria.

The competition has seen a significant increase in entries, particularly from female students, aligning with global initiatives like Girls in ICT. As part of its impact, the competition has influenced millions of students, helping them build confidence, creativity, and a passion for technology.

As SystemSpecs gears up for the 2025 edition, Mrs Adeboye emphasised the company’s excitement about engaging with new students, schools, and parents:

“This competition is becoming increasingly competitive, and we look forward to even greater participation next year. It’s a unique opportunity for students to explore technology and develop essential skills that will empower them for the future.

The post SystemSpecs Announces Date for Sixth Children’s Day Essay Competition appeared first on Tech | Business | Economy.

After emerging victorious in the highly competitive contest, Lagos State was honoured with 20 laptops and the prestigious award, following the impressive performance of its 19 students who ranked among the top 50 essay submissions across the country.

For the past five years, the CDEC has catalysed the promotion of technological awareness nationwide, serving as a key initiative in fostering tech innovation and skills development among Nigerian youth.

The 2024 edition of the competition, which kicked off in February, is part of SystemSpecs’ broader Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme aimed at nurturing local talent and growing national tech capacity.

Speaking at the event, Ms. Adekunbi Ademiluyi, Managing Director of HumanManager Limited, a subsidiary company of SystemSpecs Group said,

“SystemSpecs remains committed to fostering the development of young talent in Nigeria, particularly through initiatives like the CDEC, which empowers children to harness their tech skills and become future innovators.”

Ms. Ademiluyi further added, “Our goal with this national initiative is to ensure that every Nigerian child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to explore technology and its boundless potentials. This competition, now in its 5th year, is a testament to SystemSpecs’ unwavering dedication to building local capacity for Nigeria’s future digital economy.”

SystemSpecs has been at the forefront of enhancing technological development in Nigeria, championing initiatives that empower students with essential digital awareness, skills and resources.

Central to the company’s CSR objectives is a commitment to partnering with the public sector through strategic engagement with a view to closing the technology gap in education and technology awareness among Nigerian children.

By celebrating Lagos State’s success in the 2024 CDEC, SystemSpecs reaffirms its dedication to driving national transformation through robust collaborations with diverse stakeholders.

Mr. Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, the commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, praised the initiative, stating,

“We are proud of the strides Lagos State students have made with the CDEC. Technology is now the bedrock of education, and it is initiatives like these that prepare our students to compete globally. Lagos State is committed to partnering with SystemSpecs and other stakeholders to continue empowering our students through tech education.”

With technology playing an increasingly pivotal role in sectors ranging from education to agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare and even finance, Nigeria’s young generation is positioned to compete on a global scale.

Initiatives like the CDEC not only promote technological awareness but also foster local talent that can drive innovation in the digital economy.

In his remarks, Mr. Abayomi Abolaji, Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, noted the significance of the awards,

“This recognition and the provision of laptops mark an important step in improving the digital readiness of our students. We are grateful to SystemSpecs for their continued investment in education, and we look forward to seeing these tools enhance learning experiences and outcomes in Lagos.”

Mrs. Bukola Adeboye, Executive Director, Corporate Services, SystemSpecs Holdings Limited, expressed her appreciation to all the stakeholders, emphasising SystemSpecs’ dedication to developing local talent.

“For the last five years, the CDEC has been instrumental in driving technological awareness across the country, showcasing the value of initiatives like this in shaping Nigeria’s future in the digital space,” she noted.

“Young people are very impressionable and open to learning a lot. SystemSpecs is committed to continuing to invest in them, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge to succeed in our fast-changing world. We are very excited to announce that the next edition of CDEC will open on February 3rd 2025, offering all Nigerian children between the ages of 9 and 16 another opportunity to express their research, critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and technological insights,” said Mrs. Adeboye.

Historically, the competition has opened early each year to ensure maximum participation and engagement from students across Nigeria.

The sixth edition promises to be even more exciting as CDEC continues to gain momentum, attracting thousands of young minds eager to showcase their innovative ideas.

“We are thrilled about the new students, schools, and parents we will engage with in 2025,” said Mrs. Adeboye. “This competition is becoming more competitive across 36 states including the FCT, and we are looking forward to even greater participation in the coming year. It’s a special opportunity for students to explore technology and develop essential skills that will empower them for the future.”

SystemSpecs’ CDEC initiative, which garners thousands of essay submissions annually from across Nigeria, plays a crucial role in advancing digital literacy and nurturing a culture of innovation among young Nigerians.

Committed to this cause, SystemSpecs will continue to create opportunities for youth to develop their technology skills and make meaningful contributions to Nigeria’s future.

The CDEC has evolved into a powerful platform, equipping the next generation of leaders to drive Nigeria’s digital economy forward.

The post SystemSpecs Continues to Strengthen Tech Development in Nigeria appeared first on Tech | Business | Economy.