The National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), Lagos Technical Professionals, has organized a public speaking competition for secondary school students across Lagos, a platform aimed at harnessing potential in public speaking and exploring the future of robotics innovation.
The competition was held as part of the inaugural edition of the Young Uplifters Club Leadership Camp, a three-day leadership and personal development programme organized by the Lagos State Education District 1, designed to equip secondary school students with critical life skills.
President of NSBE Lagos Technical Professionals, Engineer Adebayo Majonagbe, emphasized the importance of early mentorship and leadership training for youths.
“When we’re talking about leadership, we’re talking about influence,” he explained. “If you want to catch them young, you have to train them. If you don’t train them, don’t blame them.”
According to Majonagbe, the public speaking competition was a practical extension of the day’s leadership teachings. “We spoke to them in the morning about public speaking, and in the evening, we asked them to come and show us what they learned,” he said. “That’s part of the equipping process. They need to be corrected, guided, and applauded.”
He called on the Nigerian government and education stakeholders to prioritize leadership and tech education. “This is the beginning,” he stated. “With the right training, our children will grow to match any developed country in innovation and leadership.”
On her part, robotics coach Oseni Oluwabunmi of the Blended Learning and Study Centre (BLSC) said the Centre partnered with NSBE to expose students to the cutting-edge world of robotics and artificial intelligence.
Oseni, who spoke passionately about how technology can transform education in Nigeria, said: “With the world advancing in AI and robotics, it’s time our curriculum adapts.”
“Robotics enhances learning, creativity, and confidence. We train students to build and program robots—not just for fun, but to prepare them for real-life engineering, medicine, and more.”
She stressed the importance of building communities across schools and universities to democratize access to robotics education.
“We provide free classes, community events, and training—even for students who can’t afford full membership. Our goal is to ensure no child is left behind,” she noted.
The robotics coach also urged policymakers to integrate programming and robotics into the national curriculum. “Many young people think they can’t compete with their peers abroad. That mindset needs to change. We’re proving every day that they can—and they will.”
According to her, the event showcased two robots designed as part of the First Tech Challenge, a competition sponsored by organizations like Coderena and supported by the Ministry of Education.
Three outstanding students emerged from the competition, including Babalola David Oluwashimilore of Olorunfumi Senior Grammar School, Idimu, who won first place.
Speaking with Blacktalker, Babalola said the experience was both emotional and inspiring. “The speech I heard in the morning helped me know when and how to speak. I just showed everyone who I am,” he reflected.
Chiamaka Mercy came second, while Adeniran Esiro took third place. Winners were judged based on confidence, composure, and expression.