OPay launches N1.2bn scholarship and N10m innovation challenge with Google

Fintech firm OPay has opened applications for its 2026 scholarship initiative, reinforcing its commitment to Nigerian youth through a N1.2 billion, 10-year education investment. This year's program, now branded as OPay Scholars, expands beyond financial aid to encompass technical skill development, innovation exposure, and career opportunities for students in Nigerian tertiary institutions.

Alongside the scholarship, OPay has unveiled a N10 million innovation challenge in collaboration with Google. This challenge aims to equip students with crucial digital and problem-solving skills. Applications for the challenge will run from May 25 to June 14, 2026. Participating teams, comprising five students each, will be tasked with developing technology-based solutions for real-life problems.

Participants in the innovation challenge are required to utilize Google Gemini tools in their development process. The challenge offers significant cash rewards, with the overall winning team set to receive N10 million. The first runner-up will be awarded N5 million, and the second runner-up will receive N3 million.

Elizabeth Wang, Chief Commercial Officer of OPay, emphasized the company's dedication to investing in Nigeria's future through education and innovation. The OPay Scholars program seeks to nurture talent and foster a new generation of skilled professionals equipped to tackle contemporary challenges.

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the company remained committed to investing in the future of Nigerian youths through education and innovation.