The inaugural ARC-RISE Summit 2026, organised by the Arc-Lights Foundation, brought together learners, educators, and technology enthusiasts from 14 countries to discuss the future of AI, robotics, and STEM education. Held under the theme 'Building National Human Capital for the AI and Robotics Future', the event featured keynote speeches and panel discussions focused on practical innovation and inclusive learning approaches. Abisola Obasanya, director of the Arc-Lights Foundation, stated the summit was created to "build the future" by empowering young learners and supporting educators with real opportunities. Kolawole Aramide, National President of Aminu Kano Academic Scholars Association, delivered a keynote titled 'AI and Robotics 2030: Data Predictions and Key Strategic Actions', urging Africa to create its own future through education.
Samuel Anih of the African Regional Centre for Space Science and Technology Education noted public schools often lack robotics kits and trained educators. Chidubem Anowor of PineApp Solutions called for tech hubs to become institutional partners in education. Balogun Wasiu of Lagos State University of Science and Technology demonstrated low-cost robotics using cardboard. Bahta Mamo Bekele, UNECA Consultant and WRO Africa Expansion Lead, stressed moving from policy to implementation, while Vladimir Ussoltsev from Kazakhstan emphasized teaching problem-solving over quick fixes. Valentine Masicha of Uganda's Mindset Coders advocated applying robotics to real-life issues in agriculture and healthcare. Philip Ndiomu Ebiogeh, permanent secretary at the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, commended the foundation's efforts in advancing STEM education.
The Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology has acknowledged the work of a private foundation in advancing STEM education, not its own nationwide rollout. When a ministry commends a non-profit for doing systemic work, it signals a gap in state-led educational transformation. For Nigerian students, this means critical access to AI and robotics training depends more on external initiatives than national policy. The real challenge isn't ambition—it's who is actually delivering the tools.
