FCMB Partners With EStars To Introduce Esports Education  

First City Monument Bank (FCMB) has joined partnered with EStars to introduce esports education to Nigerian schools, targeting students aged 7 to 14 in primary and secondary institutions.

The initiative is designed to equip young Nigerians with critical skills for navigating a digital and technology-driven world.

EStars launched its educational esports platform in Nigeria on July 16, offering students a structured and engaging way to develop teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities through gaming. These skills, essential for thriving in today’s global environment, are often overlooked in traditional classroom settings.

The platform emphasises safety and skill-building, providing tools for tournament management, team collaboration, and integrating esports into school curricula. It also includes coaching and training resources to help students refine their esports capabilities and explore career opportunities within the rapidly expanding esports industry.

Esports is becoming a formalised activity in many schools, with some integrating it into their academic programs. The initiative also promotes learning in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects, with educational games like Minecraft being used to teach coding and other technical skills.

Speaking on the partnership, FCMB’s Managing Director, Mrs. Yemisi Edun, commended the innovative approach to education: “EStars has brought a fun and innovative way to advance students’ knowledge and life skills. This platform allows schools to harness the power of play to cultivate a love for learning.”

The initiative aligns with FCMB’s broader commitment to youth development and education. Mrs. Edun emphasised the bank’s role in preparing the next generation for a future shaped by artificial intelligence and automation: “At FCMB, we believe in equipping the next generation with the skills they need to thrive in the age of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation. We are not just preparing them for the future but empowering them to shape it.”

EStars founder, Mags Byrne, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the program’s mission to empower students with knowledge and skills for success in esports and beyond. Byrne stated: “Our mission is to empower young minds with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in the esports industry and beyond.”

At the platform’s official launch, British Deputy High Commissioner, Jonny Baxter, highlighted the global potential of esports, noting its significant contribution to the United Kingdom (UK) economy. He expressed optimism about the collaboration: “Esports is now fully professional and is expected to contribute significantly to the UK economy. We are happy to support EStars in partnering with Nigerian schools.”