Union Bank has announced the call for entries into the 2021 Next Robotics Legend programme, as part of initiatives under its Edu360 umbrella.
Introduced in 2020, the programme was designed to identify and train young inventors in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics and was developed in partnership with Awarri, a pan-African artificial technology company owned by Silas Adekunle – top international robotics engineer renowned for creating the world’s first intelligent gaming robot.
During the entry period, which runs from August 9 to August 23, video submissions will be accepted via Union Bank’s website from parents and guardians of eligible students between the ages of 11 and 16. After the shortlisting stage, 40 students with the most creative and passionate entries will be selected to participate in the two-week Bootcamp, during which they will receive a tablet with preloaded information; a MekaMon, and access to seasoned tutors for the programme duration.
This edition, the scope of the Bootcamp has been expanded to include 3D printing, in addition to AI and Robotics. Participants can also opt for physical classes at on-site locations in Lagos, Ibadan and Yola, or can complete the programme virtually.
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At the end of the free training programme, participants will identify a need in their community, and apply the skills learnt to proffer a solution. The student with the best solution will be admitted for a mentorship programme with Awarri.
Speaking on the initiative, Union Bank’s chief brand/marketing officer, Ogochukwu Ekezie-Ekaidem, said: “Coming off a successful initial edition, Edu360 is excited to unveil the second edition of The Next Robotics Legend 2.0 programme. We are passionate about creating a sustainable future in Nigeria and aim to do this through initiatives that align with the Bank’s focus on education.
“By training young people in AI and Robotics, we can equip them to create innovative solutions that solve some of the biggest challenges we face as a nation, which is why we are excited to see what this year’s participants will do with the learnings from the programme.”
The initial edition of the programme saw 25 students from across Nigeria receive free training in Robotics and AI, and the successful introduction of AI into the curriculum of some schools, including Greenspring Schools, Lagos.
Edu360 was established by Union Bank in 2018 as a platform to drive much-needed reform within the Education sector and rapidly accelerate access, quality and learning outcomes for Nigerian children and youth.
