Abia State is celebrating a young tech ambassador as 15-year-old Grace Nkpa prepares to embark on an international educational adventure through the TechGirls International Exchange Programme at Virginia Tech University in the United States.
Nkpa, a Grade 12 student at Academic Planet School, Aba, was selected as one of only three Nigerian girls to participate in the prestigious STEM and leadership programme, which brings together girls from 37 countries for three months of immersive training in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
During her visit to Governor Alex Otti and members of the Abia State Executive Council, Nkpa shared her excitement and committed to using the opportunity to positively represent Abia and Nigeria.
“I am honored to take part in this programme. I promise to uphold the name of Abia wherever I go,” she said.
She encouraged girls across Nigeria to remain steadfast in their goals.
“Your dreams are valid—stay focused, and success will follow,” she advised.
Governor Otti praised Nkpa for her accomplishment and stressed that her success should ignite a ripple effect of inspiration.
“We are proud of you and look forward to you mentoring other girls in the state,” he said, announcing a $5,000 donation to support her travel and living expenses.
Mrs. Ureh Abazie of the Abia State Orientation Agency described the TechGirls programme as fiercely competitive, with Nkpa standing out among more than 250,000 Nigerian applicants.
Nkpa, who is originally from Abiriba in Ohafia Local Government Area, now prepares to take Abia State’s excellence to an international audience.
