The team, known as the STRIM Girls, developed an application called Saving Pad to help girls locate sanitary pad banks, request menstrual products, and access menstrual health education. The innovation competed against entries from teams across more than 160 countries.

The Technology Beyond Disability Initiative, which trained and mentored the students, announced the achievement in a statement on Monday, describing the project as an effort to use accessible technology to address period poverty, particularly among girls with disabilities.

The five team members are Adegbile Teniola Vivian, Sulaiman Maryam Adenike Isah, Moses Joy, Ukpapi Theresa Uzepi, and Yusuf Ruth.

The Saving Pad application features an interactive map showing nearby sanitary pad banks, a system for requesting products, a period tracker, and educational resources on menstrual health. It also allows coordinators to monitor supplies and receive alerts when stocks are running low, helping them organise timely restocking.

The students developed the solution to address difficulties girls face in obtaining sanitary products, especially those who are deaf or live with disabilities. The application is intended to make it easier for users to identify where assistance is available rather than struggle to find essential menstrual supplies.

Beyond its digital features, the project has progressed to a pilot programme in three special schools in Abuja, implemented in partnership with the Deaf Women Aloud Initiative. The pilot combines the application with physical sanitary pad banks to improve access for students.

The team plans to expand the initiative to primary healthcare centres and other underserved communities across Nigeria. The platform could also help non-governmental organisations and donor agencies track product distribution, identify areas of high demand and coordinate the replenishment of supplies.

At the international summit, the girls demonstrated how technology designed with accessibility in mind could address practical challenges affecting health, education and social inclusion. Their project aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals on good health and well-being, quality education and partnerships for development.

The students received a welcome at the airport upon their return to Nigeria, led by the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development, Dr Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, alongside members of her management team.

Their achievement highlights the potential of young Nigerians with disabilities to develop practical technological solutions when provided with training, mentorship, and opportunities to compete on international platforms.

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JAMB Registrar, Professor Segun Aina, gave the warning on Tuesday at the National Universities Commission (NUC) retreat with vice-chancellors of Nigerian universities in Abuja. The meeting focused on strengthening regulatory compliance, governance, leadership and partnerships within the university system.

Aina said some candidates had been admitted by institutions outside the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS), leaving them with admission offers that were not officially recognised by JAMB.

He explained that such candidates could complete their university education only to discover that their admission records were invalid, potentially preventing them from participating in the mandatory national youth service scheme.

The registrar described CAPS as a critical tool for promoting transparency, accountability and the protection of candidates during the admission process. He urged universities to ensure that all admission offers were properly processed and verifiable through the platform.

He said strict compliance with the system would protect students from the consequences of irregular admissions while safeguarding the credibility of university admission procedures.

Aina also acknowledged the recent disruptions to CAPS, apologising to candidates and university administrators for the inconvenience. He said JAMB was working on medium- and long-term measures to improve the platform’s stability and reliability.

The planned improvements include stronger system redundancy, better governance arrangements and business continuity measures designed to minimise the risk and impact of future disruptions.

He stressed that the board’s responsibility extended beyond restoring the platform after technical problems to ensuring that it remained dependable for institutions and candidates.

The registrar further urged university administrators to monitor their admission processes closely and comply with approved guidelines and deadlines. He said JAMB would continue working with universities to address institutional challenges and improve the admission process.

The warning comes as institutions process admissions for the 2026/2027 academic session. Under the approved timetable, public universities are expected to conclude admissions by October 31, 2026, private universities by November 30, and other tertiary institutions by December 31.

JAMB reiterated that cooperation between admission regulators and university administrators was essential to ensuring that candidates received valid admission offers and that the system operated transparently and in the public interest.

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The competition brought together students from secondary schools to test their knowledge, reasoning abilities, and capacity to present convincing arguments on topical issues.

The event formed part of broader efforts to promote academic excellence, encourage intellectual engagement and strengthen students’ communication skills through inter-school activities.

Debate competitions provide students with opportunities to research issues, evaluate different viewpoints and express their positions confidently before an audience. They also help participants develop teamwork, logical reasoning and respectful engagement with opposing opinions.

The competition comes amid growing efforts by education stakeholders in Anambra State to strengthen learning beyond the classroom through quizzes, debates and other academic activities.

In May 2026, the Nnewi North Local Government Area launched its maiden inter-school quiz and debate competition to promote academic excellence and critical thinking among students. The initiative featured schools across the area’s 10 wards, with organisers emphasising the importance of reading, confidence and public speaking.

The local government later presented awards to the winners, announcing that the competition would become an annual event.

The emergence of Nnewi High School as the winner of the Anambra debate competition highlights the role of academic contests in providing students with platforms to demonstrate their abilities and build skills that can support their educational and professional development.

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As teenagers grow and discover who they are, learning to express themselves is important. It is good to know your worth, defend your beliefs and set boundaries. But confidence should not come at the expense of other people’s feelings. So, how do you know when you are being bold and when you are crossing the line?

What does it mean to be confident?

Confidence means believing in yourself and your abilities. It means being comfortable with who you are, even when other people do not agree with you.

A confident student can raise a hand in class to answer a question without worrying too much about making a mistake. A confident teenager can say no to peer pressure, even when friends are trying to convince them to do something wrong.

Confidence also means knowing that you have a right to express your feelings, ask questions and share your opinions. You do not have to agree with everyone just to make them like you.

For example, imagine your friends want you to make fun of another student. You can confidently tell them that you do not want to be part of it. You can stand by your decision without insulting anyone or starting a fight. That is confidence in action.

When does confidence become rudeness?

Rudeness often begins when someone forgets that other people have feelings, opinions and rights, too.

Imagine a student who always insists on having the final say during group discussions. Whenever someone shares an idea, the student interrupts and says, “That is a stupid idea. Mine is better!”

The student may believe they are showing confidence, but their behaviour is disrespectful.

Being confident does not mean you are always right. It does not mean you must win every argument or prove that you are smarter than everyone else.

You can disagree with someone without embarrassing them. You can correct a mistake without making the person feel foolish. You can express your opinion without acting as though everyone else knows nothing. The difference is often in how you treat people while expressing yourself.

You can be bold without being disrespectful

Sometimes, people are afraid to speak up because they do not want to appear rude. They agree with things they dislike, keep quiet when someone crosses their boundaries or allow others to make decisions for them. But being respectful does not mean you must always say yes.

Suppose a friend asks to copy your homework. You know it is wrong, but you are afraid that refusing might upset them.

You can say, “I’m sorry, but I won’t let you copy my work. However, I can explain the questions you find difficult.”

This response is firm but respectful. You have made your position clear without insulting your friend.

Now imagine responding with, “Are you mad? Must you depend on me for everything?”

Both responses say no, but only one protects your boundary without attacking the other person.

Learning to say no politely is an important part of becoming confident.

Social media can make it confusing

Social media has made it easier for people to share their opinions, challenge others and express themselves. However, it can also make rude behaviour look fashionable.

You may have seen videos where people insult others and call it “keeping it real.” Sometimes, people praise someone for being savage simply because they said something hurtful without hesitation.

But being outspoken does not automatically make someone confident, and making people uncomfortable does not always mean you are telling the truth.

You can be honest without being cruel. You can correct someone without turning their mistake into entertainment for others.

Before posting a comment or replying to someone online, ask yourself: Am I trying to explain my point, or am I trying to embarrass this person?

Remember that there is a real human being behind the screen. A comment that makes others laugh may leave someone feeling hurt long after the laughter has ended.

What if people call you rude for standing up for yourself?

Here is where things can become tricky. Not everyone will like it when you begin expressing yourself more confidently. A friend who is used to you always agreeing with them may become upset when you start saying no. Someone who expects you to remain silent may call you disrespectful when you finally speak up.

This does not automatically mean you are rude.

Sometimes, people confuse boundaries with disrespect because they are not used to being challenged.

However, it is also important to examine your own behaviour honestly. Did you express your feelings calmly? Did you listen when the other person spoke? Did you attack their character instead of addressing what they did?

You cannot control how everyone reacts to you, but you can take responsibility for how you communicate.

If you realise that you have spoken harshly, you can apologise without abandoning your original point. Saying, “I’m sorry for the way I spoke to you, but I still disagree with what you did,” shows that you can admit your mistake while standing by your feelings. That is a valuable skill.

How can you find the balance?

The good news is that confidence and respect can exist together. You do not have to choose between being bold and being kind.

Start by listening to other people. Listening does not mean you must agree with everything they say. It simply means giving them a chance to express themselves.

Think before you speak, especially when you are angry. Words can be difficult to take back once they have been said.

Learn to accept correction, too. Nobody knows everything, and being willing to learn does not make you weak.

Finally, treat people with the same respect you expect from them. You can be proud of your achievements without looking down on others, and you can stand up for yourself without trying to bring someone else down.

You can be confident and kind

Growing up involves learning how to express yourself, defend your beliefs and build relationships with different people. You will not always get it right, and that is okay. What matters is being willing to learn. The next time you feel the need to speak up, remember that confidence is not about being the loudest person in the room or having the last word. It is about knowing your worth without making others feel worthless.

You can stand tall without stepping on anyone else.

The post Confidence or rudeness? Knowing where to draw the line appeared first on Teen Trust News.

Dr Mary Adebayo, a teacher at Nawair-Ud-Deen Grammar School (Senior), Obantoko, Abeokuta, Ogun State, has emerged as Nigeria’s Overall Best Teacher for 2026, earning a brand-new car as her reward.

Adebayo received the award during the Federal Government’s President’s Teachers’ and Schools’ Excellence Awards at the 2026 World Teachers’ Day celebration in Abuja.

She first won the Best Public Senior Secondary School Teacher category before being named the overall best teacher in the country.

Speaking while receiving her prize, Adebayo expressed gratitude for the recognition, saying she had continued doing her job without expecting such a reward.

“I started this work in a private school. I kept doing the work, I did not know the Lord will reward me this way,” she said.

Her achievement has attracted congratulations from her school’s old students and a lawmaker representing part of Ogun State.

ALSO READ

• JAMB to establish UTME centre in Canada for 2027
• UK universities withdraw admission offers to Nigerian students
• Chrisland introduces new ways for pupils to report bullying

The Nawair-Ud-Deen Grammar School, Obantoko Old Students Association, described her success as a source of pride for the school and its community.

In a congratulatory statement issued on Friday, the association said the award reflected Adebayo’s commitment to teaching and improving education in Nigeria.

It added that her achievement would inspire students, teachers and former students of the school to work hard and remain committed to their goals.

“NUDGOSA is particularly proud that one of our own has risen to the pinnacle of the teaching profession in Nigeria,” the statement said.

The association’s National President, Hon. Fasiu Bakenne, congratulated Adebayo, the school’s management and staff, as well as the Ogun State Teaching Service Commission.

The statement was signed by the association’s National Public Relations Officer, Sanni Damilola.

Lawmaker Nasir Gboyega Isiaka also congratulated Adebayo, describing her emergence as Nigeria’s Overall Best Teacher as a source of pride for Afon, Imeko-Afon and the wider constituency.

In a message titled “Celebrating Excellence: Congratulations to Nigeria’s Best Teacher,” Isiaka described her as an illustrious daughter of Afon, Imeko-Afon.

He said her achievement showed that people from local communities could attain national recognition through their work and dedication.

Isiaka added that education remained an important part of his service to the constituency, noting that investment in education was necessary to create more opportunities for young people.

“Dr. Adebayo’s achievement therefore resonates deeply with the work we have continued to pursue in strengthening education and supporting those who dedicate their lives to it,” he said.

He wished Adebayo greater success in her professional career and future endeavours.

The 2026 World Teachers’ Day celebration was held under the theme, “Standing with Teachers: 60 Years of Protecting the Profession, Advancing the Status and Shaping Our Future”.

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Parents play an important role in the lives of their children. From the moment a child is born, parents provide love, care, protection, guidance and support. They help children grow into responsible members of society. Without their efforts and sacrifices, many children would find it difficult to develop properly.

Some of the major responsibilities of parents include providing basic needs such as food, clothing, shelter, education and healthcare. They also work hard to ensure that their children grow up in a safe and comfortable environment.

Parents are a child’s first teachers. Before children begin school, they learn many important things from their parents. Parents teach them how to speak, behave, respect others and distinguish between right and wrong. They also teach values such as kindness, patience, discipline and responsibility. These lessons help children become good citizens.

Another important role of parents is helping their children deal with difficulties, disappointments, fear and failure at different stages of life. They encourage their children when they struggle and celebrate their achievements when they succeed.

Children who receive love and encouragement from their parents are more likely to develop confidence and healthy self-esteem.

Good parenting helps children feel safe, loved and supported. When parents guide their children with care and understanding, they give them a strong foundation for a better future.

The post The importance of good parenting appeared first on Teen Trust News.

“Small steps today can make a big difference tomorrow.”

What does success really mean? Why do some people achieve their goals while others give up halfway? Is it because they are lucky or naturally talented? Not really. Success is not a secret that only a few people know. It often depends on the small things we do every day. It takes hard work, patience and determination.

So, what is the system for achieving success?

Set a goal: Know what you want to achieve. It could be getting better grades, learning a new skill or preparing for your future career.

Be consistent: You do not have to do everything perfectly. What matters is that you keep trying. Studying for a little while every day is better than waiting until the last minute to prepare for an examination.

Learn from your mistakes: Nobody gets everything right all the time. Instead of being ashamed of your mistakes, learn from them and try again. Mistakes can teach you valuable lessons if you are willing to learn.

Choose your career wisely: Do not choose a career simply because it is popular or because your friends are interested in it. Think about what you enjoy, what you are good at and what you would like to do in the future.

Believe in yourself: Sometimes, other people may doubt you, but do not let that stop you. Confidence and determination can take you further than you think.

The secret? There is no secret. Success is built one step at a time. You do not have to become successful overnight. Start small, stay focused and keep working towards your goals.

The post Success is not a secret; it is a system appeared first on Teen Trust News.

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) is set to establish a Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) centre in Ottawa, Canada, from 2027 to enable Nigerians living in North America to sit for the examination without travelling to Nigeria.

The board announced the plan on its official social media platforms following a visit by its Registrar, Prof. Segun Aina, to the Nigerian High Commission in Ottawa.

JAMB said the proposed centre would make it easier for eligible Nigerians abroad who wish to gain admission into Nigerian universities, polytechnics and colleges of education to take the entrance examination.

The UTME is organised by JAMB for candidates seeking admission into many tertiary institutions in Nigeria.

According to the board, the initiative is part of its efforts to expand access to Nigerian tertiary education and maintain stronger links with Nigerians living abroad.

It added that the centre would give eligible candidates in Canada and other parts of North America another option for taking the examination.

JAMB said the proposed facility was expected to begin operations in 2027, although further details about registration and examination arrangements are yet to be announced.

The board encouraged Nigerians interested in the initiative to follow its official channels for updates.

The development is expected to reduce the cost and difficulty of travelling to Nigeria solely to write the UTME for candidates living in Canada.

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Chrisland Schools has strengthened its child protection measures by providing pupils with different channels to report bullying, abuse and other safety concerns.

The school announced the measures during a press conference in Idimu, Lagos, where its officials explained how learners could seek help without fear of being identified or facing retaliation.

Kemi Fajemirokun, the school’s Head of Risk, Compliance, Safeguarding and Child Protection, said some children were reluctant to report bullying because they feared being labelled “snitches” or targeted by those they reported.

She said the school had introduced confidential reporting options, including designated safeguarding officers and boxes where pupils could submit written complaints.

Abimbola Taylor, a safeguarding officer at Chrisland School, Opebi, Ikeja, said the reporting boxes were intended to help children who found it difficult to speak directly to an adult.

She added that reports could be handled in ways that protected the identities of pupils who raised concerns.

Taylor urged learners to report incidents promptly, regardless of how minor they might appear, so that appropriate action could be taken.

Fajemirokun said the school’s approach involved pupils, parents, teaching staff and non-teaching staff working together to maintain a safe learning environment.

She added that school activities were subjected to risk assessments before approval to identify possible dangers and prevent avoidable incidents.

Olusegun Ogunsola, the school’s Executive Head of School (Academics), said staff members received training in safeguarding, child protection and risk management.

He said the school also used assemblies, workshops and other activities to educate learners about safety. According to him, the second week of every term is dedicated to safeguarding awareness, with external experts invited to speak to pupils.

Olubunmi Dosunmu, Principal of Chrisland College, Idimu, said safeguarding was particularly important in boarding schools, where students require supervision and protection throughout the day and night.

The school said its safeguarding measures covered its campuses in Ikeja, Idimu, Festac and Victoria Island.

It urged members of the school community to take responsibility for reporting concerns and protecting children from harm. Pupils experiencing bullying or abuse are encouraged to seek help from a trusted adult or the school’s designated safeguarding officer.

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Some universities in the United Kingdom have withdrawn admission offers to Nigerian and other international students amid stricter student visa checks and rising visa refusals, according to a report by the *Financial Times*.

The report said 22.7 per cent of study visa applications from Nigeria were withdrawn in the first half of 2026, compared with 4.5 per cent during the same period in 2025.

Across all applicants, the proportion of withdrawn UK study visa applications rose to 10.5 per cent in the first six months of 2026, from 2.3 per cent in the corresponding period of 2025 and 0.4 per cent in 2023.

The report attributed the development to concerns among universities that high visa refusal rates could affect their ability to recruit international students.

It said some institutions had withdrawn offers to applicants, including Nigerians and Pakistanis, because they feared stricter immigration controls could lead to restrictions on overseas recruitment.

The British government has raised concerns about people suspected of using student visas to enter the country before applying for asylum. Asylum is protection sought by people who say they cannot safely return to their home countries.

Data from Enroly, a company that provides visa application processing services, indicated that nearly half of UK universities had visa refusal rates above the five per cent threshold that could expose them to restrictions on international recruitment.

The development could affect universities that depend on tuition fees from overseas students to support their academic programmes and operations.

Sir David Bell, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sunderland, said his institution had reduced recruitment efforts in some international markets in response to the tougher approach to visa applications.

Vanessa Wilson, chief executive of University Alliance, a group of 20 professional and technical universities, warned that the situation could lead to job losses and the closure of courses and campuses.

The reported withdrawals raise concerns for Nigerian students planning to study in the UK, as admission offers do not guarantee that applicants will receive visas.

Prospective students have been advised to check the latest visa requirements through official UK government channels and ensure that their applications contain accurate information and all required supporting documents.

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