Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN), in partnership with Johnson & Johnson, has launched this year’s edition of the Winning in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Manufacturing and Design (WiSTEM2D) program.

The initiative is designed to motivate secondary school students to explore careers in STEM fields and develop critical skills needed to thrive in the modern workforce.

This year’s edition adopts a blended learning model, combining digital engagement with in-person activities to enhance participants’ creativity, problem-solving abilities, and confidence.

The program commenced with the National WiSTEM2D Innovation Camp in Lagos, where 66 top-performing students gathered for a full day of immersive learning. Participants interacted with STEM professionals, participated in design-thinking workshops, and showcased their innovative ideas in an ideathon and pitch contest before industry experts.

The highlight of the event was the pitch competition, where three schools emerged as winners:

First Place: Festac Senior College, Festac Town — represented by Betiku Adedolapo, Okorocha Mmesoma, Davidson Chioma, and Igwe Mmaduabuchi — for their project on decentralized waste and recycling stations to bring disposal points closer to communities.

First Runner-Up: Bola Ige Millennium Senior Secondary School — represented by Giwa Faridat Oluwafunmilayo, Anozie Ngozi Maryolivia, Nnodim Goodness, Enukoha Mary, and Omonigho Joy — for their Automated BinBot, a device that separates dry and wet waste to reduce pollution and improve sanitation.

Second Runner-Up: Lagos State Senior Model College — represented by Ezeanya Chisom, Johnchukwu Confidence, Chukwuka Favour, and Nnedu Chukwuemeka — for a project combining health awareness with waste management, including replacing single-use plastics with reusable alternatives and converting organic waste into fertilizer.

Speaking at the event, JAN’s Assistant Director of Programs, Mr. Olaolu Akogun, described the initiative as part of the organisation’s ongoing effort to inspire the next generation of innovators.

“We are excited to continue our collaboration with Johnson & Johnson through the WiSTEM2D program. This initiative breaks barriers in STEM by equipping young leaders with tools, mentorship, and opportunities to succeed. We are confident it will inspire a new generation of innovators and change-makers to drive Nigeria and Africa’s future,” he said.

Ms. Jaiyesimi Oyefunke, Country Lead at Johnson & Johnson Nigeria, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting education and youth empowerment through sustainable partnerships.

While the Innovation Camp directly impacted 66 students through hands-on sessions, the reach of the WiSTEM2D program extends further. The next phase — an online STEM Challenge — is set to begin next week, engaging over 750 students across Nigeria.

Through its interactive digital platform, the challenge will expose participants to STEM concepts in fun and competitive ways, broadening access and inspiring more young Nigerians to develop innovative solutions to real-world challenges.

With the ongoing partnership between Junior Achievement Nigeria and Johnson & Johnson, the WiSTEM2D program continues to drive a nationwide movement of young innovators prepared to shape the country’s scientific and technological future.

Some staff of Johnson and Johnson Nigeria, Junior Achievement Nigeria, and participants at the WiSTEM2D Innovation Camp in Lagos.