SystemSpecs, a leading technology firm in Nigeria, has announced on Friday, the commencement of its 2025 Children’s Day Essay Competition (CDEC), set to kick off in February.

The initiative aims to empower young Nigerians aged 9 to 16 by encouraging creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills through technology, according to the technology company.

The competition, now in its sixth year, serves as a platform for children to explore how technology can address real-world challenges.

SystemSpecs: CDEC 2025, a platform for children to explore technology

Bukola Adeboye, Executive Director of Corporate Services at SystemSpecs, emphasises the importance of this initiative in fostering technological literacy among youths. “The competition aims to nurture local talent and equip the next generation of leaders with the skills necessary to thrive in Nigeria’s digital economy,” she says.

Founded in 1992, SystemSpecs has established itself as a prominent player in the information and communications technology (ICT) sector. The company says it has consistently invested in initiatives that promote sustainable tech development in Nigeria.

The CDEC, one such initiatives designed to stimulate interest in technology among young people, Adeboye says, aligns with the long-term vision of enhancing tech literacy and preparing Nigeria’s youth for global competitiveness by SystemSpecs.

“For Nigeria to compete effectively on a global scale, the next generation must be equipped with the requisite technological skills from an early stage,” she says .

Over the past five years, the company says, CDEC has attracted participants from both public and private schools across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). “It’s a unique opportunity for students to explore technology and develop essential skills that will empower them for the future,” Adeboye adds.

One notable aspect of this year’s competition is its focus on promoting gender inclusivity within the tech space. Adeboye explains that out that there has been a significant increase in entries from female students, aligning with global initiatives like Girls in ICT.

“The competition has seen a remarkable rise in participation from young girls, which is encouraging as we strive for gender balance in technology,” she says. SystemSpecs aims to provide an inclusive environment where all children can express their ideas and showcase their talents. “We recognize that diversity drives innovation, and we are committed to ensuring that every voice is heard.”

The tech company says that the essay competition will challenge participants to write on topics related to technology’s role in solving pressing societal issues. The themes will encourage students to think critically about how they can leverage technology to create positive change in their communities.

Participants will be judged based on creativity, originality, and their ability to communicate ideas effectively. Winners will receive various prizes, including scholarships and mentorship opportunities designed to further their education and professional development. The essays must reflect not only creativity but also a deep understanding of how technology can be harnessed for societal benefit for students to think outside the box and propose innovative solutions.

According to SystemSpecs, the CDEC is part of its broader commitment to building a sustainable tech ecosystem in Nigeria. By investing in the next generation of innovators, the company says it aims to contribute significantly to national development.

“The future of Nigeria’s economy lies in our ability to harness the talents of our youth,” Adeboye adds. “Through initiatives like this essay competition, we are laying the groundwork for a more technologically-adept workforce.

She adds that “in addition to fostering individual talent, SystemSpecs believes that such initiatives can inspire systemic change within communities. When young people are empowered with knowledge and skills, they become agents of change who can drive progress within their local environments.”

As excitement builds for the launch of the 2025 Children’s Day Essay Competition, SystemSpecs is optimistic about its potential impact on participants and the broader community. The firm plans to engage with schools nationwide to ensure maximum participation and encourage students to take part. “We hope this competition will inspire other organizations to invest in youth development through technology,” Adeboye says. “Our vision extends beyond just this event; it’s about creating lasting change that benefits everyone.”

Following the competition, SystemSpecs says it intends to publish a compilation of selected essays, showcasing the creativity and insights of young Nigerian writers. “This publication will serve as both an inspiration for future participants and a resource for educators looking to incorporate technology into their curricula.”

For SystemSpecs, the 2025 Children’s Day Essay Competition represents a significant step forward in promoting technological literacy among Nigerian youth. By providing a platform for young minds to explore innovative solutions through writing, SystemSpecs says it is “not only nurturing local talent but also contributing to Nigeria’s journey toward becoming a global leader in technology.”