Benue Students to Represent Nigeria at International Robotics and AI Competition in Hong Kong
A group of five students from Federal Government College, Vandeikya, in Benue State, Nigeria, are set to make history as they represent the country at the prestigious "2024 Asia Pacific Open Championship" in Hong Kong.
Francisca Okoro 
A group of five students from Federal Government College, Vandeikya, in Benue State, Nigeria, are set to make history as they represent the country at the prestigious "2024 Asia Pacific Open Championship" in Hong Kong. The students, who departed Nigeria today from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, are the only representatives from Africa at this year’s competition.
The 2024 Asia Pacific Open Championship, organized by FIRST LEGO League Education, USA, and hosted by the Hong Kong Education Bureau in collaboration with China FLL partners, will take place from August 2nd to 4th at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The competition brings together top young minds in robotics and artificial intelligence from around the globe.
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The students, known as The Vande Coders, are members of the Robotic & Artificial Intelligence Club at their school. Their journey to the international stage began with impressive performances at regional competitions organized by the Coderina Educational Technology Foundation and the Federal Ministry of Education in Kaduna State. The Vande Coders secured the 2nd position at the regional level and went on to achieve 3rd place at the national competition held at M.K.O Abiola International Stadium in Abuja. Their success at the national level earned them three trophies in various categories, qualifying them for the international competition.
The team comprises:
- Leva Terkuma Cephas - SS 3B
- Gundu Msendo Faustina - SS 3A
- Okom Linus Okom - SS 2A
- Alem Solomon Vershima - SS 2A
- Onmeh Sonia Ehi - SS 1A
Their participation in the Asia Pacific Open Championship is supported by the Benue State Government, under the leadership of His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia. The team is guided by coach Mr. Echono Boniface Echehoyi and Principal/Head Teacher Dr. Sende Jennifer Soohemba.
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This achievement underscores the commitment of the Benue State Government to fostering young talent and promoting STEM education in Nigeria. The team's remarkable journey highlights the growing prominence of Nigerian students on the global stage in the fields of robotics and artificial intelligence.
Donald Kumun, Principal Special Assistant to the Governor on Print Media
