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Girls in STEM Program Celebrates Record Success as 100% of Matric Cohort Passes Exams, Secures Scholarships

Girls in STEM Program Celebrates Record Success as 100% of Matric Cohort Passes Exams, Secures Scholarships

 

Subheadline: Melisizwe Computer Lab Project and e4’s Initiative Empowers Young Women to Break Barriers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics

The Girls in STEM Awards Ceremony, held on 31 January 2025, celebrated the remarkable achievements of young women who have overcome challenges to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This year, the program achieved a 100% pass rate among its matric cohort, with many students earning scholarships and university placements in highly competitive STEM fields.

Launched in 2021 by the Melisizwe Computer Lab Project in partnership with e4, the Girls in STEM program aims to equip young women with the knowledge, mentorship, and confidence needed to excel in technology-driven industries. Over the past four years, the initiative has opened doors for participants, transforming academic potential into tangible success.

This year’s top achievers include:

  • Talitha Moosa, who scored 95% in Physical Sciences and 96% in Mathematics, and will study Actuarial Science at Wits University.
  • Mbali Shata, who earned distinctions in Mathematics and Physical Science, securing a bursary to study Medicine at SMU.
  • Aisha Patel, a standout performer in Mathematics and Physical Science, who received offers from both the University of Cape Town (UCT) and the University of Johannesburg (UJ) to study Computer Science.

Candice Kern-Thomas, CEO of Melisizwe, emphasized that the program goes beyond academic success. “These young women are not just excelling academically—they are breaking barriers in an industry where female representation remains low. Their achievements prove that with the right support, talent and determination can thrive. e4 was the first corporate sponsor to believe in this vision, and their investment has made this journey possible.”

e4’s contribution extends beyond funding, offering mentorship, career exposure, and guidance throughout the students’ high school years. Phylla Jele, Human Resources and Transformation Executive at e4, stated, “This program is not about charity; it’s about building the future of the tech industry in South Africa. Empowering young women in STEM is both a corporate and a national responsibility. These young minds are the innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders who will drive our economy forward.”

With a 51% retention rate since 2021, the program has demonstrated its effectiveness in keeping girls engaged in STEM subjects while fostering confidence, ambition, and excellence. Many graduates have already been accepted into top universities with financial assistance, highlighting the program’s tangible impact.

As the initiative enters its next phase, Melisizwe and e4 are focused on expanding its reach to more communities, ensuring that even more young women can pursue STEM careers. “We have proven that this model works,” said Kern-Thomas. “Now it’s time to scale. We need more industry players to step up, invest in education, and help create a truly inclusive digital future.”

The Girls in STEM Awards Ceremony is not only a celebration of achievement but also a call to action. By investing in young women, corporates, educators, and policymakers can help build a South Africa where talent—not circumstances—determines a child’s future.

EFT Corporation eyes growth and expansion opportunities across Africa with a new strategic vision

EFT Corporation eyes growth and expansion opportunities across Africa with a new strategic vision

 

 

One year since leading fintech company Ukheshe acquired payments solutions provider EFT Corporation, the merged company has undergone a rebranding and reorganisation that leverages the synergies between the two entities.

 

EFTCorp’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Clayton Hayward says, “We have been honing our focus on the core strengths of the business – cards, wallets, processing and POS services as well as tailoring our approach to meet the specific demands of regional markets. We are positioned to become the largest, most impactful payments solutions provider in Africa with payment orchestration as our core value proposition.”

 

Ensuring EFTCorp continues to add value for its bank and fintech partners is the cornerstone of the company which has recommitted to delivering streamlined, solutions-driven offerings to its clients.

 

Seamless transformation

EFTCorp’s transformation over the past year has focused on integrating innovative technologies, streamlining operations, and reinforcing its position as a trusted partner for banks and fintechs. Going into 2025 with a razor-sharp vision for both the company and the continent’s future will see the growth and development of market-driven payment solutions to deliver bottom-line revenue growth for the company.

 

Catherine Korsten, Chief Commercial Officer, reflects on the evolution of EFTCorp, “Through the company’s transformation process, we have constantly been working to stay ahead of the curve and be responsive to trends in the payments sector, but always with the specific needs of our clients in mind, wherever they are on their own digital transformation journey.”

 

It is this ability to offer future-forward solutions that meet clients’ current challenges that has kept EFTCorp at the forefront of the payment orchestration landscape.

 

A commitment to innovation and market adaptation

The strength of EFTCorp’s sales team is key to the company’s success. By incorporating trends that are currently shaping the fintech landscape, the company is able to unlock growth opportunities for themselves and their clients. “Innovation lies in how we solve our clients’ individual challenges. Instead of selling products, we focus on solving orchestration problems for them,” says Carlin Wicomb, Chief Sales Officer.

 

One of the banking sector’s key challenges is the need to optimise existing infrastructure that is costly to replace, while containing and reducing costs.  EFTCorp’s solutions don’t disrupt systems that the client already has in place but rather enhance them. “Looking forward we will focus on our flagship solutions including Eclipse to support existing banking infrastructure, ensuring we add measurable value for banks and fintech partners across the continent,” says Hayward.

 

Hayward emphasises that the company’s strategy is clear – to create payment efficiencies in payment orchestration – and to match these efficiencies to regional realities in new and emerging markets including East Africa, particularly Ethiopia and Kenya and in West Africa, starting with Ghana.

 

Says Carlin, “In markets like Kenya and Ghana, for example, the integration of payment orchestration and POS solutions is in its infancy, presenting a huge opportunity for EFTCorp to become a significant player in those markets.”

 

Watching regional as well as industry-specific trends is important for the sales team. “It’s important that we remain agile and address specific challenges in each region, and while our base solution – processing, issuing and acquiring – remains consistent – the way in which we package and tailor it varies based on market needs. Our sales team is always sensitive to regional diversity, and that market intelligence is critical for our successful expansion in Africa,” added Wicomb.

 

Forward looking

Trends in the fintech sector, including embedded finance, blockchain and open banking are making financial services accessible and inclusive for everyone, whether they have a bank account or not. Despite progress, approximately only 45% of the population in Sub-Saharan Africa did not have a bank account as of 2021. Additionally, about 90% of retail transactions in Sub-Saharan Africa are still cash-based, indicating a heavy reliance on cash among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). By leveraging its strengths in seamless payment processing, issuing, acquiring and banking as a service, EFTCorp is driving financial innovation, inclusion and growth across emerging markets.

 

“Our success will come from doing a lot more with a lot less,” says Hayward. “By refining our core offerings, scaling what works and delivering innovative solutions tailored to the needs of regional markets, we aim to position ourselves as the leading orchestration platform provider for banks, driving their digital transformation journeys.”

 

In just 12 months, EFTCorp has achieved a lot, but there is definitely more to come.

 

Revisiting the Centrality of Customers and Employees in Economic Value Creation

Revisiting the Centrality of Customers and Employees in Economic Value Creation

 

 

By Anthony Emeka Nwosu,

Dr. Omoniyi Ibietan, Head of Media Relations at the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and Secretary-General of the African Public Relations Association (APRA), has called for a re-evaluation of the economic philosophies that prioritize customers and employees in the value creation chain. Speaking on the enduring relevance of classical economic theories, Dr. Ibietan emphasized the need to balance the Smithian notion of free markets with the critical role of labor in driving economic prosperity.

Dr. Ibietan, who holds a Ph.D. in Communication from North-West University, South Africa, highlighted the foundational works of Adam Smith, Karl Marx, and John Maynard Keynes as the pillars of modern economic thought. He noted that while Adam Smith’s emphasis on competition, capitalism, and free markets remains central, the role of labor—as articulated by David Ricardo’s Labour Theory of Value—cannot be overlooked. According to Ricardo, the value of a commodity is proportional to the labor invested in its production, underscoring the importance of human resources in economic systems.

In his analysis, Dr. Ibietan also revisited the “Diamond-Water Paradox,” a concept popularized by Adam Smith in The Wealth of Nations (1776). The paradox questions why essential goods like water, which are indispensable for survival, are often cheap, while luxury items like diamonds, with limited practical utility, command high prices. “This contradiction between value in use and value in exchange,” Dr. Ibietan explained, “reflects a broader dilemma in how we perceive and prioritize resources, including the roles of customers and employees in the value chain.”

Drawing parallels to modern economic dynamics, Dr. Ibietan argued that employees, much like water, create the foundational value that customers seek to satisfy their needs. However, he noted that customers also play a crucial role in sustaining the existence of employees and businesses. This interplay, he suggested, presents an “inescapable dilemma” that requires a nuanced approach to economic policy and organizational strategy.

Referencing Professor Tim Jackson’s seminal work, Prosperity Without Growth, Dr. Ibietan called for a rethinking of traditional economic models to better address the dual importance of customers and employees. “Just as water and diamonds each hold distinct yet invaluable roles, so too do employees and customers in the economic ecosystem,” he stated.

Dr. Ibietan’s insights come at a time when global economies are grappling with issues of inequality, labor rights, and sustainable growth. His call to revisit classical economic philosophies while addressing contemporary challenges underscores the need for a balanced approach to value creation and distribution.

As the Secretary-General of APRA and a leading figure in Nigeria’s communications sector, Dr. Ibietan’s perspectives carry significant weight in both academic and professional circles. His remarks serve as a timely reminder of the enduring relevance of economic theory in shaping policies that promote inclusive and sustainable growth.

Disclaimer: The views expressed by Dr. Omoniyi Ibietan are personal and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the Nigerian Communications Commission or the African Public Relations Association.

NDPC Reinforces Data Protection Awareness at NIF Workshop

NDPC Reinforces Data Protection Awareness at NIF Workshop

 

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has reiterated its commitment to strengthening data protection practices across various sectors, particularly among international non-governmental organisations (INGOs) operating in Nigeria. This was the central theme of a Data Protection Training Workshop organised for the Nigeria INGO Forum (NIF), where the National Commissioner/CEO of the NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, was represented by the Head of Research and Development, Dr. Tolulope Pius-Fadipe.

The workshop aimed to enhance awareness and build capacity in data protection, equipping INGOs with the necessary tools to ensure compliance with Nigeria’s data protection regulations. Dr. Pius-Fadipe, in her address, emphasised the crucial role of data protection in fostering trust, maintaining regulatory compliance, and strengthening Nigeria’s digital economy. She highlighted the NDPC’s dedication to enforcing data protection laws and promoting a culture of accountability in data management practices across multiple sectors.

Participants actively engaged in interactive discussions, exchanging insights with experts on practical strategies for implementing robust data protection measures within their organisations. The session served as a platform for INGOs to seek clarifications, share experiences, and explore best practices tailored to their operational needs.

Through initiatives like this, the NDPC continues to champion capacity-building efforts and encourage the adoption of global standards in data security and privacy across Nigeria’s digital ecosystem. The commission remains steadfast in ensuring that all stakeholders uphold the principles of data protection, contributing to a more secure and regulated digital environment in Nigeria.

 

NDPC Advocates Data Protection Awareness at INGO Forum Training Workshop

NDPC Advocates Data Protection Awareness at INGO Forum Training Workshop

 

Lagos, Nigeria – The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has reiterated its commitment to strengthening data protection awareness and compliance in the country. This was underscored during a Data Protection Training Workshop organised for the Nigeria INGO Forum (NIF), where the NDPC’s National Commissioner and CEO, Dr Vincent Olatunji, was represented by the Head of Research and Development, Dr Tolulope Pius-Fadipe.

The workshop aimed to enhance knowledge and capacity in data protection among international non-governmental organisations (INGOs) operating in Nigeria. In her address, Dr Pius-Fadipe highlighted the importance of data protection in fostering trust, ensuring regulatory compliance, and boosting Nigeria’s digital economy. She reaffirmed the NDPC’s dedication to enforcing data protection laws and promoting a culture of accountability in data management practices across all sectors.May be an image of 1 person, dais and text

Participants engaged in interactive discussions, exchanging ideas and strategies for implementing data protection measures within their organisations. The training provided a valuable platform for INGOs to deepen their understanding of data security protocols and compliance requirements.

Through such initiatives, the NDPC continues to champion capacity-building efforts, aligning Nigeria’s data protection framework with global best practices and reinforcing security measures within the country’s digital ecosystem.

 

 

ANTHONY EMEKA NWOSU May be an image of 3 people, dais and text that says "OUT"

FMAFS INTRODUCES NATIONAL URBAN AGRICULTURAL PROGRAMME

FMAFS INTRODUCES NATIONAL URBAN AGRICULTURAL PROGRAMME

 

In a bid to bolster self-sufficiency in food production and empower Nigerian households, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has announced the introduction of a National Urban Agricultural Programme (NUAP).

The programme is scheduled to take off in 2025, with financial provisions contained in the year’s Appropriation proposals.

This was disclosed on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, by the Hon. Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, while speaking at the grand finale of the “Every Home A Garden” competition organized by the Office of the First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, under the Renewed Hope Initiative: Agricultural and Food Security Programme, held in Banquet Hall, State House,Abuja.

The Minister of State said the NUAP would be boosted by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security taking over the “Every Home A Garden” and “Young Farmers Club” projects, which were components of the First Lady’s Agricultural Support Programme. “Our National Urban Agricultural Programme will institutionalize the gains of these initiatives for the good of all,” the Minister said.May be an image of 1 person, dais and text

The Minister of State also praised Sen. Oluremi Tinubu for her “unwavering commitment and forward-looking vision that has ignited a nationwide movement.”

He noted that the “Every Home A Garden” competition “has not only encouraged citizens, especially women, to embrace home gardening but also contributed to healthier lifestyles, reduced household food insecurity, and strengthened community ties”

“Every Home A Garden” competition “has not only encouraged citizens, especially women, to embrace home gardening but also contributed to healthier lifestyles, reduced household food insecurity, and strengthened community ties”

 

While applauding the First Lady for her “exceptional leadership in paving the path towards ensuring the success of her pet project,” Sen. Sabi Abdullahi said the “Every Home A Garden” competition “recognizes creativity, excellence, commitment to sustainable gardening practices, and household self-sufficiency.”

He congratulated the winner of the maiden edition of the competition, Mrs. Veronica Kidafa Mbaya, of Borno State.

“Every Home A Garden” competition was launched in October 2023 by Sen. Tinubu. The winner took home a combined prize of N25 million.

Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Tunisia Join Russia’s Currency Trading List Amid Global Economic Shifts

Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Tunisia Join Russia’s Currency Trading List Amid Global Economic Shifts

 

In a significant move that underscores shifting global trade dynamics, Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Tunisia have been added to Russia’s official currency trading list. This development expands the number of countries on the list from 30 to 40, reinforcing Russia’s strategic push toward alternative financial partnerships amid ongoing Western sanctions.

The inclusion of these African nations, alongside other new entrants such as Laos and Mexico, is part of Moscow’s broader effort to bolster trade in national currencies. The expansion is also driven by the need to enhance liquidity, as Russian individuals and financial institutions have limited capacity to provide sufficient liquidity in foreign currencies.

Impact on Trade and Economic Relations

This decision is expected to strengthen bilateral trade flows between Russia and these newly added countries, supporting transactions estimated at $1.8 trillion. Furthermore, it provides a buffer for Russia’s $1.3 trillion economy, which continues to navigate the challenges posed by Western-imposed financial restrictions.

The move aligns with a growing global trend where countries seek alternatives to traditional dollar-dominated transactions. By expanding its currency trading partnerships, Russia aims to diversify its economic relationships, fostering a multipolar financial system that reduces dependence on Western-controlled monetary frameworks.

Implications for Nigeria and Other African Nations

For Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Tunisia, this development presents new economic opportunities, particularly in trade, investment, and financial cooperation with Russia. It could facilitate easier transactions in sectors such as energy, agriculture, and technology, potentially leading to deeper economic ties.

Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, has been exploring ways to diversify its trade relationships beyond Western financial institutions, and this inclusion may provide an alternative channel for international transactions. Ethiopia and Tunisia, both emerging markets with strategic economic importance, could also leverage this opportunity to strengthen trade relations with Russia.

Geopolitical and Economic Considerations

As Western nations continue to impose sanctions on Russia, Moscow’s focus on expanding its financial alliances with Africa, Asia, and Latin America signifies a recalibration of global economic partnerships. The move is likely to accelerate discussions on de-dollarization and encourage alternative financial systems that reduce the dominance of Western financial institutions in global trade.

With trade flows expected to increase and economic relations deepening, the inclusion of Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Tunisia in Russia’s currency trading list marks a pivotal moment in international finance. As these nations navigate the evolving global economic landscape, their participation in Russia’s financial network could reshape trade partnerships in the years to come.

Margaret Olele Highlights Ease of Doing Business in Nigeria at High-Profile FDI Roundtable

Margaret Olele Highlights Ease of Doing Business in Nigeria at High-Profile FDI Roundtable

 

Lagos, Nigeria – The Chief Executive Officer of the American Business Council, Margaret Olele, recently presented key insights from the American Business Council Nigeria survey report on the Ease of Doing Business in Nigeria. Her presentation was delivered at the Existing Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Roundtable, organized by the Office of the Vice-President of Nigeria in collaboration with The Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) Secretariat.No alt text provided for this image

The event, attended by over 400 stakeholders, featured top government officials, including the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Olayemi Cardoso; Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole; Minister of Foreign Affairs; Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Customs; and various heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), such as the Postmaster General of the Federation and the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Council. Several state governors and prominent industry leaders also participated in the high-level discussions.

During the event, the newly appointed Director-General of PEBEC, Princess Zahrah Mustapha Audu, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment. The Central Bank Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, provided an update on recent monetary reforms, emphasizing their positive impact on the Nigerian economy.No alt text provided for this image

Olele, in her remarks, engaged with leaders representing chambers of commerce from the European Union, China, France, and Indonesia. She noted the increasingly pivotal role of Chambers of Commerce in supporting and advocating for the private sector amidst shifting global trade dynamics. With buzzwords like geopolitics, tariffs, geo-economics, diversification, trade rebalancing, and soft power diplomacy shaping global discussions, she stressed the need for strengthened collaboration between the public and private sectors to drive FDI inflows into Nigeria.No alt text provided for this image

The roundtable provided a platform for key policymakers and industry players to deliberate on strategies to enhance Nigeria’s business climate and attract foreign investments, reinforcing the government’s commitment to economic reforms and trade facilitation.

 

Driving Digital Transformation in Emerging Economies Through Media, Fintech & EdTech

Driving Digital Transformation in Emerging Economies Through Media, Fintech & EdTech

 

Aleph Group, a leading global enabler of digital advertising, fintech services and education technology, proudly marks its 20th anniversary with the launch of a bold company manifesto and video campaign, celebrating two decades of innovation, growth, and its mission to make the digital world more accessible for everyone.

From its humble beginnings in Miami in 2005 to becoming a global leader in the digital advertising ecosystem, Aleph has consistently challenged the status quo, breaking down barriers and creating opportunities in over 150+ markets worldwide, with 60+ exclusive partnerships, serving more than 26,000 advertisers globally and 1500+ employees worldwide.

Aleph’s success has been fuelled by its commitment to creating lasting value, extending the reach of digital advertising and making a difference in emerging markets. “When we started, we didn’t dream of being part of the digital world; we dreamed of making it possible for everyone to be part of the digital world,” reads the manifesto. This philosophy has driven Aleph’s evolution from a small startup to a global powerhouse, playing a pivotal role in connecting businesses, brands, and consumers through digital platforms.

“Our collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting Nigeria’s digital growth,” said Stanislaus Martins, Managing Director for West Africa at Aleph.

“With Aleph’s expanded partnership with Pinterest and TikTok, we can now offer brands in Nigeria access to one of the world’s leading visual discovery and social media platforms, helping them reach millions of users passionate about discovering new ideas. These partnerships unlock new opportunities for Nigerian advertisers to connect with engaged audiences, driving meaningful engagement and business growth. Together, we’re excited to help businesses in Nigeria thrive in the digital age,” added Martins.

A Bold Vision for the Future: To commemorate its 20th anniversary, Aleph is unveiling a corporate manifesto video featuring employees from around the globe. The campaign captures Aleph’s unique philosophy: “At Aleph, there’s no room for small dreams. That’s why big things happen.” The video highlights the company’s journey and commitment to empowering businesses and individuals by providing access to the tools and platforms they need to thrive in the digital economy.

How Big is Your World? As part of the celebration, Aleph invites the world to reflect on its own digital ambitions through the campaign tagline, “How Big Is Your World?” The campaign encourages businesses, entrepreneurs, and individuals to dream bigger and explore the limitless possibilities of the digital era.  Aleph’s story is not just one of business success but of a vision realised through collaboration and innovation. “Our success has always been about more than growth,” says Gaston Taratuta, Founder and CEO of Aleph. “It’s been about helping others grow, from our partners and clients to the communities we serve.”

Join Aleph in celebrating 20 years of making the digital world more accessible. We invite you to watch the manifesto video and discover how Aleph is shaping the future of the digital economies.

For media inquiries, please contact: press@alephholding.com/www.alephholding.com

Keeping Marriage Alive Initiative Hosts Exclusive Valentine’s Couples Vision Retreat in Owerri

Keeping Marriage Alive Initiative Hosts Exclusive Valentine’s Couples Vision Retreat in Owerri

 

 This Valentine’s season, Keeping Marriage Alive Initiative invites couples in Owerri and beyond to a unique and transformative experience at the Couples Vision Retreat. Set to take place on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Texas Suites and Resorts, Owerri, this retreat is designed to help couples strengthen their bond and set a shared vision for the year in a romantic and intimate setting.

Under the theme “Forward Together”, the retreat offers a carefully curated lineup of activities to inspire love, growth, and deeper connection between partners.

Highlights of the Event:

  • WAM/TLM Session – Interactive relationship-building sessions
  • One Free Counselling Session
  • Intimate Session – A heart-to-heart moment for couples
  • Special Family Budget Session – Practical financial planning for couples
  • Couples Games & Gift Exchange – Fun, bonding activities
  • Valentine Special & Refreshments

Event Details:

📅 Date: Saturday, February 15, 2025
⏰ Time: 9:00 AM Prompt
📍 Venue: Texas Suites and Resorts, Plot C4, Housing Area B, New Owerri Layout (By ISOPADEC Office, Opposite Play Royal, Owerri)
👕 Dress Code: A Touch of RED

Special Offer:

Originally priced at ₦49,999, couples can now secure their spot for just ₦10,000 as part of this special edition.

Payment Details:
💳 Bank: Zenith Bank
🏦 Account Name: Keeping Marriage Alive Initiative
🔢 Account Number: 1013379299

Couples are encouraged to reserve their slots early and give their marriage the gift it deserves this Valentine’s season.

For further inquiries, please contact:
📞 +2347088765212
📧 keepingmarriagealive@gmail.com

# # #

For media requests or interviews, please contact the event organizers at the above-listed details.