The maiden edition of the Scholars Cup Challenge (SCC) 2025, organized by Lancaster University Ghana, concluded with a spectacular finale at the MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos, where Riverbank School emerged as the overall champion.
This year’s theme, “The Digital Pulse,” explored the rapid advancement of digital technologies and their transformative impact on Nigerian society. Students examined how mobile connectivity, the internet, social media, and digital services are reshaping education, business, and culture, while confronting the challenges of cybersecurity, data privacy, and digital inequality.
A total of 38 secondary schools participated in the preliminary rounds of the competition, submitting essays on thought-provoking topics, including “Should machines be allowed to take over human intelligence?
After two rigorous essay phases, the top 10 schools advanced to the debate finals, where they engaged in intellectually charged discussions on contemporary issues such as AI in Nigeria: Our greatest breakthrough or the end of human jobs? Bitcoin & Crypto: A Goldmine for Nigerians or a Digital Scam? AI tutors vs. Human teachers: Which educates Nigerian students better?
In a commanding display of eloquence, confidence, and critical reasoning, Riverbank School secured the top position as the 2025 Scholars Cup Challenge Champion. Corona Secondary School, Agbara, and Supreme Education Foundation School took home the first and second runner-up positions, respectively.
Individual excellence was also celebrated, with Chimbusonma Enedah of Riverbank School winning the Best Female Debater, and Joseph Jayden of Mictech International School receiving the Best Male Debater award.
The event brought together educators, industry professionals, and academic leaders in a celebration of intellect and creativity, all united by a shared vision to empower Africa’s next generation of thinkers and leaders through education.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Emmanuel Arthur, CEO and Provost of Lancaster University Ghana, commended the students for their impressive performances and the depth of their ideas:
“The Scholars Cup Challenge is more than a competition; it’s a platform for young people to use their voices, challenge perspectives, and shape the future through critical thought and collaboration,” he said.
“At Lancaster University Ghana, we are committed to nurturing future leaders who think globally and act locally.”
The awareness and engagement generated through this year’s competition across Nigerian schools were remarkable, signaling strong enthusiasm for initiatives that blend education, debate, and innovation.
By bridging creativity with critical thinking, the Scholars Cup Challenge continues Lancaster University Ghana’s commitment to advancing educational excellence across Africa.
