KEY Academy, a project-based primary school in Lagos, has been named a Top 10 finalist for the 2025 World’s Best School Prize in Innovation, marking the first time a Nigerian and West African school has earned this distinction.
The World’s Best School Prizes are prestigious global awards recognizing schools that make significant community impacts through innovative educational practices. Founded in 2019 by Damilola Okonkwo, KEY Academy aims to transform education in Africa by focusing on real-world learning, creativity, and collaboration rather than traditional exam memorization.
“We’re honoured to be recognised on the global stage. This moment is not just about us. It’s a moment for Nigeria and all of West Africa to be proud of what’s possible in our education system.” – Okonkwo
KEY Academy’s curriculum integrates science, sustainability, art, and critical thinking through hands-on projects and mentorship. Students work with industry experts to solve real-world problems, fostering skills for the future. The school is expanding with plans to open a 15,000 square meter secondary campus and innovation hub by 2027. It is also developing a digital platform to train teachers nationwide in inquiry-based education.
Recently, KEY Academy hosted ChessMasters, Africa’s largest school chess tournament, attracting over 500 players from more than 100 schools to promote strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
As a finalist, KEY Academy will be featured globally to inspire other schools and has a chance to win a cash prize to support its mission of democratizing modern education in Nigeria. Public voting is open for the Community Choice Award, allowing supporters worldwide to back the school’s innovative approach.
JAMB Registrar plans to certify 1,039 CBT centres
December 18, 2025
