Three exceptional students from Nigeria’s South-East have qualified to represent the country at the International STEM Olympiad Grand Final, which begins on July 2 in Rome, Italy.
The students Egejurum Onyedikachi Ethan, Victor Onwubiko, and Don Anele Munachimso Marvelous earned their places after emerging as top performers in various categories at the 2026 South-East Mathematics Olympiad, an initiative organised by education advocate Alex Onyia.
Among the finalists is Egejurum Onyedikachi Ethan, a Primary Six pupil recognized for his outstanding mathematical ability. Also representing Nigeria is Victor Onwubiko, a Junior Secondary School Three (JSS3) student who distinguished himself by solving advanced engineering mathematics problems well beyond his academic level.
The third finalist, Don Anele Munachimso Marvelous, has already gained national recognition after recording Nigeria’s highest score in the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) Chemistry examination and securing a $100,000 academic scholarship.
The trio will compete in the International STEM Olympiad’s Grand Final against thousands of students from more than 150 countries, showcasing their abilities in mathematics, science, technology, and engineering.
Education advocate Alex Onyia announced that he is sponsoring the students’ participation by covering the costs of international travel, visa processing, accommodation, and chaperone arrangements. The sponsorship also extends to accompanying teachers, including one educator who will be travelling outside Nigeria for the first time.
The initiative has been widely praised as an example of private-sector support for academic excellence and talent development, particularly in science and technology education.
Supporters have expressed optimism that the students will perform strongly on the global stage and further demonstrate the immense potential of Nigerian youth when provided with the right opportunities and support.
Their participation is expected to inspire more young Nigerians to pursue excellence in STEM education while highlighting the importance of sustained investment in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics as drivers of national development and global competitiveness.
