Nigerian students win gold medal at SAGE competition in US

A group of Nigerian students has bagged a gold medal at the 2019 Students for the Advancement of Global Entrepreneurship (SAGE) competition, for ‘Marist Air Quality Monitor’, their problem-solving project.

SAGE is a transnational social movement that emphasizes civic duty and responsibility among high school students who are then made to form teams and develop socially responsible businesses to compete in a global competition.

The Nigerian students, from Marist College in Abuja, vied for the ultimate prize alongside students from around the globe at the 2019 competition with their device that monitors air quality and detects harmful environments.

The students’ device reportedly utilizes various sensors, a microprocessor, and a platform to detect elevated levels of harmful particles and chemicals in the air and then quickly triggers an alarm or warning phone calls.

“The Marist-AQM is set to inspire positive change in Nigeria, across Africa and beyond as it provides an opportunity for healthier lives and promotes wellbeing for all at all ages. MARIST-AQM also provides much-needed air quality data to various stakeholders,” said Romanus Ayeh, coordinator of the team.

“My team and I had the opportunity to showcase our project and defend our country.We did great and won a Gold medal for our project and we are all happy. The experience is worth reliving and I am glad to have partaken in it.’”

While speaking on the award, Ifeanyi Mgeabu, principal of the school, said that he would ensure the institution embarks on mass production for commercialization.

The competition held in California between August 8 and 12; saw the high school students compete with those from China, Canada, Ireland, Israel, Japan, Vietnam, among others; and witnessed the vetting of many equally impressive projects.