One hundred and thirty-five girls from 27 public secondary schools in Lagos have developed artificial intelligence-powered solutions to tackle challenges in education, safety and bullying. They achieved this after participating in Tech4Dev‘s maiden AI Inter-District Secondary School Challenge.
The initiative formed part of the Tech Girls Drive Advocacy programme under the Women Techsters initiative. It introduced participants from Lagos Education Districts II and IV to practical AI and problem-solving skills.
Students showcase AI innovations
The competition ended with a grand finale where six finalist teams presented AI-powered projects. Their innovations focused on improving learning accessibility, student safety and school welfare.
Speaking at the event, Tech4Dev’s Country Manager for Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa, Abraham Akpan, said the programme aimed to prepare girls for opportunities in an AI-driven future.
“This challenge was about more than learning Artificial Intelligence. It was about helping young girls see themselves as creators, innovators, and problem-solvers. When girls are given access to the right skills and opportunities, they can build solutions that create real impact in their communities,” he said.
The programme started with advocacy sessions in 31 public secondary schools. Afterwards, 27 schools qualified for the competition. Each participating school nominated five girls from Junior Secondary School One to Senior Secondary School Three. The students developed AI-powered solutions with support from teachers and volunteer mentors.
Winning projects address real-life problems
Mende Junior High School claimed the top prize with Learning Without Limits. The AI-powered platform converts classroom notes into sign language videos, simplified visual explanations, subtitles and voice narration. As a result, it helps deaf and hard-of-hearing students learn more effectively.
Onike Girls Junior High School finished second with Onike Girls Alarm Station. The personal safety application features a one-tap emergency alert and live GPS tracking. It allows girls to seek help quickly during emergencies, even in locations with poor network coverage.
Mende Senior High School secured third place with SpeakSafe. The anonymous AI-powered reporting platform enables students to report bullying confidentially. It also helps schools identify patterns and respond faster.
One participant said the challenge completely changed her perception of artificial intelligence.
“Before this challenge, I never imagined I could use AI. Working with my team showed me that our ideas matter, and it has inspired me to keep learning and building solutions that can help others,” she said.
Tech4Dev promotes digital skills for girls
Besides the winning entries, participating schools developed projects focusing on gender-based violence, adolescent health, environmental sustainability, financial literacy, unemployment, educational access and social inclusion.
Representing the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs Oni praised the initiative for promoting digital skills among young girls.
“Education must continue to evolve to prepare young people for the reality of tomorrow. Initiatives like this provide students with opportunities to develop critical thinking, creativity, and digital skills. We commend Tech4Dev for creating this platform and investing in the future of our girls,” she said.
Tech4Dev said the challenge supports its wider goal of expanding digital skills training for girls in underserved communities. Through the Women Techsters Programme, the organisation operates in 30 African countries. It equips girls and women with the skills needed for careers in technology and innovation.
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