The 5th Annual TeensThink International Essay Competition reached its thrilling conclusion at the prestigious Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, uniting teenage intellectuals from across Africa in a powerful celebration of innovation, creativity, and ethical reflection.
Established as a transformative educational platform, the competition welcomed over 100 essay submissions from young thinkers in Nigeria, Liberia, Kenya, and Cameroon. With the 2025 theme, “Humanity and Artificial Intelligence: How Can a Blend of the Two Make the World a Better Place — A Teen’s Perspective,” participants were challenged to explore how emerging technologies can serve, rather than overshadow, the human condition.
From the impressive submissions, 16 finalists were shortlisted through a rigorous selection process assessed by respected teachers, educational consultants, and scholars. Judges evaluated the essays for originality, clarity, relevance, depth, and creativity.
Honouring Africa’s Brightest Young Minds
1st Place: Opabiyi Josephine — The Federal College of Education Abeokuta, Model Secondary School (82 points)
2nd Place: Eniola Kananfo — Ota Total Academy, Ota (81 points)
3rd Place: Oghenerugba Akpabor-Okoro — Babington Macaulay Junior Seminary, Ikorodu (80 points)
The winners received brand-new laptops, educational books, rechargeable fans, Scrabble games, and cash prizes. Their groundbreaking essays will be published on respected educational platforms to help spark broader dialogue on AI and ethics across the continent.
Speaking on behalf of TeensThink’s founder and convener, David Olesin expressed pride in the contestants and reaffirmed the organization’s mission:
“TeensThink is deeply committed to preparing teenagers for leadership in a fast-evolving world. Through platforms like this competition, we empower young minds to challenge norms, embrace curiosity, and develop the confidence to drive real-world change—especially in fields like Artificial Intelligence.”
The event’s momentum reached a peak with the unveiling of QuestAIKids – https://questaikids.com, a groundbreaking, free artificial intelligence learning platform. Officially launched by keynote speaker Dr. Celestine Achi—AI educator, innovator, and CEO of Cihan Media Communications—the platform aims to democratize AI education, providing free access to premium learning resources for children across Africa.
“The people who change the world are the ones who dare to ask, ‘What if?’” Dr. Achi told the captivated audience. “Africa’s youth must seize the opportunity to shape the continent’s future with daring ideas powered by empathy and intelligence.”
The finale wasn’t all essays and accolades. It featured vibrant performances by Anyangbemisola the Drummer Girl, saxophonist Demilade Adepegba, and rapper Young T, blending artistry with intellect in a soul-stirring celebration of Africa’s limitless youth talent.
Dr. Adeboye Adeyemi, Chairman of the TeensThink Advisory Committee, captured the event’s essence:
“These teens are not waiting for the future—they’re actively redefining it. Their ideas, their voices, and their passions are shaping a smarter, more ethical digital Africa.”
With its fifth edition now successfully concluded, TeensThinkis expanding its vision. Future plans include partnerships with education ministries, AI incubators, and youth-led initiatives to deliver workshops, innovation labs, and mentorship programs throughout the year—bridging knowledge and impact across borders.
About TeensThink
TeensThink is an education-driven initiative that cultivates leadership, creativity, and critical thinking among Africa’s teenagers. Through essay competitions, mentorship programs, and digital education platforms, it empowers young people to engage meaningfully with today’s most pressing challenges and ideas.
The 2025 TeensThink Essay Competition was proudly supported by SLOT, STL Trustees, Nigerian Breweries, Coronation, Tulcan Energy, MTN, and MultiChoice.
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