Lagos Schoolgirls Develop AI Solutions in Tech4Dev Challenge

Secondary school girls in Lagos have showcased innovative artificial intelligence (AI) solutions to real-world challenges during the Tech4Dev AI Inter-District Secondary School Challenge, highlighting the growing role of technology in empowering young women and preparing them for future careers.

Education Districts II and IV, the" title="Lagos Schoolgirls Develop AI Solutions in Tech4Dev Challenge">

Also read: Transformative ways to take care of your Mental Health in College

The initiative, organised by Tech4Dev, brought together students from 28 public secondary schools across Lagos State to compete by developing AI-powered solutions addressing challenges within their schools and communities. The programme is designed to improve AI literacy, critical thinking and problem-solving skills among young girls while encouraging greater participation in science and technology. 

Throughout the competition, participants received intensive coaching in artificial intelligence, prompt engineering and digital innovation from industry experts, mentors and volunteers. The students were challenged to identify community problems and design practical AI-driven solutions capable of creating meaningful social impact. 

At the grand finale, the schoolgirls presented creative projects demonstrating how artificial intelligence can be applied to education, environmental sustainability, public safety and other community needs. The competition showcased the participants’ technical abilities, creativity and confidence in using emerging technologies to solve everyday problems. 

Tech4Dev said the challenge is more than a competition, describing it as a platform to inspire the next generation of female innovators, technology leaders and changemakers. The organisation noted that exposing girls to AI at an early stage would help bridge the gender gap in technology and prepare them for opportunities in the digital economy. 

The organisers added that the initiative aligns with broader efforts to equip young Nigerians with future-ready digital skills as artificial intelligence continues to reshape industries and the global workforce. They expressed optimism that programmes of this nature would encourage more girls to pursue careers in STEM and contribute to technological innovation across Africa.