The 5th edition of the TeensThink International Essay Competition concluded at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, with young participants from across Africa presenting ideas on artificial intelligence and its impact on humanity.
David Olesin, founder and convener of TeensThink, was represented by a spokesperson who spoke about the purpose of the programme. “TeensThink is deeply committed to preparing teenagers for leadership in a fast-evolving world. Through platforms like this competition, we empower young minds to challenge norms, embrace curiosity, and develop the confidence to drive real-world change, especially in fields like Artificial Intelligence,” he said.
The annual event, which received more than 100 essay submissions from teenagers in Nigeria, Liberia, Kenya, and Cameroon, focused on the 2025 theme: “Humanity and Artificial Intelligence: How Can a Blend of the Two Make the World a Better Place — A Teen’s Perspective.” The essays explored how AI can be used to support human development, not replace it.
After a strict judging process involving teachers, education consultants and scholars, 16 finalists were selected based on originality, relevance, clarity, depth and creativity.
The top position went to Opabiyi Josephine from The Federal College of Education Abeokuta, Model Secondary School, with a total of 82 points. Eniola Kananfo of Ota Total Academy, Ota, followed closely with 81 points, while Oghenerugba Akpabor-Okoro from Babington Macaulay Junior Seminary, Ikorodu, secured third place with 80 points.
The winners received new laptops, books, rechargeable fans, Scrabble games and cash prizes. Their essays will be published on education platforms to encourage more conversations around the ethical use of AI.
One of the major highlights of the finale was the official launch of QuestAIKids website, a new, free AI learning platform for African children. It was introduced by keynote speaker Dr Celestine Achi, an AI educator and CEO of Cihan Media Communications. “The people who change the world are the ones who dare to ask, ‘What if?’” Dr Achi told the audience. “Africa’s youth must seize the opportunity to shape the continent’s future with daring ideas powered by empathy and intelligence.”
Alongside the essay presentations, the event featured performances by young artists, including drummer Anyangbemisola, saxophonist Demilade Adepegba, and rapper Young T. These performances added a creative dimension to the day, blending music with thought leadership.
Dr Adeboye Adeyemi, Chairman of the TeensThink Advisory Committee, spoke on the broader impact of the initiative. “These teens are not waiting for the future—they’re actively redefining it. Their ideas, their voices, and their passions are shaping a smarter, more ethical digital Africa,” he said.
With the 2025 edition now complete, TeensThink announced future plans to partner with ministries of education, technology hubs and youth-led organisations. The goal is to deliver workshops, innovation labs and mentorship programmes that extend the platform’s reach beyond the competition.
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