Nigerian Students Compete at International STEM Olympiad Finale in Rome
Three Nigerian students are representing the country at the Grand Finale of the International STEM Olympiad in Rome, Italy, where participants from over 150 countries are competing in mathematics and science events.
The students—Egejurum Onyedikachi Ethan, Onwubiko Chimduebube Victor, and Don Anele Munachimso Marvelous—qualified for the global competition after emerging among the top performers in the Southeast Mathematics Olympiad, which attracted thousands of contestants.
They are competing at the Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, accompanied by their teachers, in both mathematics and science categories. Their participation has been widely viewed as a reflection of the potential of Nigerian students when given the necessary support and exposure.
The trip was sponsored by education advocate and Educare Chief Executive Officer, Alex Onyia, who covered the students’ travel and logistics. He has expressed confidence in their abilities, highlighting their academic strengths and preparedness for the competition.
Don Anele Munachimso Marvelous is competing in the senior category and has been recognised for outstanding performance in chemistry at the IGCSE level. Egejurum Onyedikachi Ethan, one of the youngest participants, is competing in the primary mathematics category and also featured in the science segment of the competition.
Their participation comes amid growing concerns about Nigeria’s declining presence in international academic competitions, particularly following reports of reduced involvement in the International Mathematical Olympiad due to funding challenges.
Stakeholders say the initiative underscores the importance of private sector involvement in supporting gifted education and ensuring Nigerian students continue to gain global academic exposure.
Results from the Olympiad are expected to be announced in the coming days.
