Abia Student Grace Nkpa Selected for Global TechGirls Programme in U.S.
Grace Nkpa, a 15-year-old Grade 12 student of Academic Planet School in Aba, Abia State, has been selected as one of Nigeria’s three representatives at the 2025 TechGirls International Exchange Programme.
The prestigious three-month programme will take place at Virginia Tech University in the United States, bringing together outstanding girls from 37 countries for intensive training in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), alongside leadership and mentorship sessions.
Nkpa’s selection followed a highly competitive process involving over 250,000 Nigerian applicants.
During a visit to the Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, Nkpa expressed gratitude and pledged to represent the state and Nigeria with pride. She encouraged other girls to stay focused on their goals and believe in their potential.
Governor Otti praised her achievement as a proud moment for Abia and announced a donation of $5,000 (in Naira equivalent) to support her travel and welfare, urging her to return and share her experiences with other young girls in the state.
Nkpa’s story highlights the importance of the right to participation, a core principle of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which affirms that every child has the right to be heard and to contribute meaningfully to society.
