Nigerian children won the second Mobo Game Jam, a global game-making competition organized by Kucheza Gaming and Union Bank’s education platform edu360.
The competition encouraged young innovators ages 8-18 from Nigeria and the UK to develop video games or game prototypes that combine creativity, compassion, and computational thinking to defeat a villain causing a global problem and raise awareness and provide possible solutions.
Ngozi Akinyele, Union Bank’s head of strategic brand management, explained why edu360 partnered with Kucheza Gaming for Mobo Gam Jam 2.
edu360 prepares future leaders for a digitized world. This partnership helps us achieve our goal of a holistic, 360-degree learning experience beyond the classroom.
Through the Game Jam, we raise awareness of social issues and work with youth to find solutions. edu360 continues to foster collaborations and partnerships that boost the Nigerian education sector and provide quality learning outcomes for Nigerian children and youth, she said.
Kucheza Gaming founder Bukola Akingbade said games can inspire change.
Video games and education can build a sustainable future for children, she says.
“What do kids need for their future?” By taking a considered approach, we believe video games and the industry’s opportunities can help retain young people’s attention while building a better future.”
This year’s theme was “clean air” in response to SDG 13 on climate action. The heroes were categorized as U13 (for ages 8-13) and 13+ (for ages 13-18).
Contestants had to create a game to defeat air pollution. The three-month competition received 500 registrations, with 10 games shortlisted by industry judges.
The final live showcase was in March, and global winners were chosen after over 2,300 votes.
Mustafa’s game ‘The Air’ won the U13 category, and The A3 Production team from Warri’s ‘Air Max’ won the 13+ category. Winners received cash and game laptops.
Mobo Game Jam promotes learning through gaming. The Game Jam, supported by Ukie Education’s Digital Schoolhouse, promotes inclusivity, sustainability, and humanity in participants’ ideas.
Kucheza Gaming exports and makes games for 6-18-year-olds in Africa (primary and secondary schools).
“Kucheza” means “play” in Swahili. At Kucheza, we use “play” to empower youth in Africa, the youngest and fastest-growing continent.
- Tags: edu360, Mobo Game Jam, Union Bank
