In a major win for Nigerian girls in technology, 15-year-old Grace Nkpa from Abia State has been selected to participate in the prestigious TechGirls International Exchange Programme at Virginia Tech University, USA.
Nkpa, a Grade 12 student at Academic Planet School in Aba, emerged as one of just three girls chosen to represent Nigeria among participants from 37 countries around the globe. The programme offers intensive training in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), along with leadership mentorship designed to empower young women in tech.
According to Educa.ng’s special feature on rising young tech stars, Nkpa will spend three months immersed in hands-on workshops and networking with other brilliant girls worldwide.
During her courtesy visit to Abia State Governor Alex Otti and his cabinet at the Government House in Nvosi, Isialangwa South, Nkpa expressed her excitement and gratitude.
“I’m thankful for this opportunity. I promise to make Abia and Nigeria proud,” she said. She also encouraged other girls to remain focused on their dreams.
“Other girls can achieve this too if they stay determined and avoid distractions,” she added.
Governor Otti lauded her accomplishment, calling it an inspiring moment for Abia State. He urged her to return after the programme to share her newfound knowledge with others in the community.
“All eyes are on you—you are now an ambassador of Abia and Nigeria,” he said, while announcing a personal donation of $5,000 in Naira to cover her travel and welfare expenses.
Mrs. Ureh Abazie, Director-General of the Abia State Orientation Agency, highlighted the highly competitive selection process, noting that Nkpa was chosen from over 250,000 Nigerian applicants.
Nkpa, who hails from Abiriba in Ohafia LGA, is now set to showcase Abia’s potential on the global stage.
