Moniepoint Inc., a leading financial institution in Africa, recently demonstrated its strong commitment to youth empowerment and human capital development across the continent through a significant partnership with the Mega Impact Foundation. This collaboration supported the 5th edition of the NextGen Connect Interschool Oratory Competition held in Asaba, Delta State.
Empowering the Next Generation
The competition, strategically held to coincide with this year's International Day of the Boy Child, brought together SS2 students from various schools across Delta State. Participants were tasked with addressing the crucial theme: "The Role of Financial Inclusion and Technology in Shaping a Brighter Future for Young People in Africa." This theme resonates deeply with Moniepoint's core mission of advancing financial inclusion through innovative digital financial technology solutions and payment services, for which it has received widespread acclaim.
Celebrating Talent and Investing in Education
The event showcased the exceptional oratorical talent present among Nigeria's youth. Otovo Praise of Crystalloid International School emerged as the champion, earning a full-year scholarship through the Tosin Eniolorunda STEM Foundation. This scholarship exemplifies Moniepoint's philosophy of investing in educational excellence and nurturing future leaders. Following closely, Audi Innocent of St Patrick's College secured second place and a prize of ₦300,000, while Asher David of Glorious Kids Academy was awarded ₦200,000 for his third-place finish.
A Vision for Africa's Future
Tosin Eniolorunda, CEO of Moniepoint Inc., emphasized the company's dedication to sustainable innovation. "At Moniepoint, we believe that driving sustainable innovation begins with future-proofing and expanding the talent pool by empowering the next generation with the tools that they need to succeed, especially basic literacy skills which remain fundamental pillars in socio-economic development," he stated. Eniolorunda further highlighted the significance of these young voices: "These young voices represent the future of African leadership, and their insights into financial inclusion and technology demonstrate the remarkable potential that exists within our communities. Through our various educational and developmental initiatives such as the CAD/CAM lab we donated to OAU last year or the Moniepoint DreamDevs programme, we are betting big on an investment in Africa's future."
Beyond Awards: Fostering Critical Thinking
Moniepoint's involvement extends beyond financial rewards. The initiative actively creates meaningful platforms for young people to articulate their ideas on a global stage. Through its support of the NextGen Connect Conference and Tech-In-School conversations, Moniepoint is actively cultivating an environment where young individuals can hone critical thinking skills, build confidence, and engage effectively with pressing societal issues.
Collaborative Efforts for Sustainable Development
Florence Ogonegbu, Founder of the Mega Impact Foundation, reiterated her organization's unwavering commitment. "We reaffirm our commitment to building an Africa where every young person has simplified access to sustainable education, capacity building, and empowerment," she remarked. Ogonegbu stressed the importance of leveraging technology and local initiatives to create platforms for youth to thrive and transform their communities. She concluded by emphasizing the collective impact: "Together with partners like Moniepoint, we are not just shaping futures—we are driving a movement for social development that will resonate globally. Every boy, every young person, deserves the opportunity to unlock their full potential and drive lasting impact across our continent."
The success of the competition was further bolstered by additional support from the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Delta State, underscoring the collaborative approach essential for effectively nurturing young talent.
