FG Opens Application for 2026 National Girls in ICT Competition (Nigeria)

The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy invites applications for the 2026 National Girls in ICT Competition. This national programme is designed to empower girls in secondary schools to explore technology, solve real-world problems, and build strong careers in ICT.

If you are a young girl in Nigeria who is interested in technology, innovation, or problem-solving, this is a valuable opportunity to showcase your skills and win meaningful rewards.

Competition Overview

• Host Country: Nigeria

• Programme Type: ICT Competition for Secondary School Girls

• Eligible Country: Nigeria

• Age Range: 10–16 years (JS1–SS3)

• Team Size: 2–3 girls per team

• Rewards: Scholarships, laptops, tablets, robotic kits, trophies, certificates

• Application Deadline: February 28, 2026

• IELTS Requirement: Not required

About the National Girls in ICT Programme

The National Girls in ICT Competition is a team-based innovation programme that encourages girls to create technology solutions to real-life problems in their communities.

Each team will develop a digital solution focused on one of these areas:

• Agriculture

• Education

• Health

The aim is to increase female participation in technology in Nigeria and support girls to become innovators, engineers, and leaders in the digital economy.

Why You Should Apply

Participating in this programme will help you:

• Build practical technology and problem-solving skills

• Gain early exposure to STEM careers

• Strengthen your academic profile

• Learn teamwork and communication

• Meet mentors and industry experts

• Qualify for scholarships and national recognition

Even without winning, the experience can support your future education and career goals.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the 2026 National Girls in ICT Competition, you must:

• Be a female student in a Nigerian secondary school

• Be between 10 and 16 years old

• Be part of a team of 2–3 girls

• Show interest in technology, creativity, and innovation

• Have approval from your school

• Provide parent or guardian consent

• Submit only one project per team

Benefits and Rewards

Participants and winners stand to gain:

• Scholarships and education support

• Laptops and digital devices

• Robotic kits and technology tools

• Trophies and recognition

• Certificates of participation and excellence

• Exposure to future education and career opportunities

What Judges Are Looking For

Strong entries usually demonstrate:

• Creativity and originality

• A clear problem and solution

• Practical value and community impact

• Simplicity and usability

• Good teamwork and presentation

Sample Project Ideas

Simple, useful ideas are encouraged. Examples include:

• A mobile app that helps farmers check crop prices

• A learning platform for students without textbooks

• A health reminder system for vaccination or medication

• A waste management tracking solution for a community

• A water usage monitoring tool for rural areas

Tips to Improve Your Chances

• Choose a problem you understand well

• Keep your solution simple and easy to use

• Work effectively as a team

• Practice your presentation and explanation

• Use visuals or demonstrations to explain your idea

• Focus on solving a real problem in your community

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Register online through the official application portal

2. Form a team of 2–3 girls with support from your school

3. Identify a community problem and develop a tech-based solution

4. Participate in a 5-day state training programme

5. Present your project at regional competitions

6. Finalists will pitch virtually before expert judges

7. Winners receive awards, certificates, and further opportunities

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can students from private and public schools apply?
Yes. The competition is open to all secondary school girls in Nigeria.

Do participants need coding experience?
No. Basic knowledge is helpful, but training and guidance will be provided.

Can one student join more than one team?
No. Each student can only belong to one team.

Is internet access required?
Yes, especially for the virtual pitching stage, although support may be provided during training.

Are junior secondary students eligible?
Yes. Students from JS1 to SS3 (ages 10–16) can apply.

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