Newark Public Schools Students Advance to National Fintech Competition

NEWARK, N.J. – A team of students from the Newark School of Data Science & Information Technology has advanced to the national stage of the Fiserv Future Techies National Competition, earning recognition for their innovative financial technology solution designed to help young people build healthy saving habits.
 
Three seniors – Jacob Botchway, Somadina Ekwe, and Moussa Sow, collectively known as,  “Team SaveQuest” – were accepted into the competition earlier this year. Since then, they have impressed judges with their thoughtfully designed fintech application that helps young people develop healthy saving habits. The idea’s real-world relevance and the team’s strong presentation secured them a place in the upcoming National Pitch Competition, which will be held virtually on Wednesday, May 6th.
 
“This achievement reflects the kind of transformation we are seeing throughout Newark Public Schools,” said Superintendent León. “Our students are learning advanced technical skills and  applying them to solve real-world challenges. To be recognized on a national stage in a highly competitive field like financial technology speaks volumes about their talent, their preparation, and their future.”
 
“We are proud of these students for representing Newark Public Schools on a national level,” said Board of Education President Hasani K. Council. “Their success demonstrates what is possible when students are given access to high-quality, future-focused learning opportunities that connect education to real careers.”
 
“Our students approached this challenge with creativity, discipline, and a deep understanding of the problem they wanted to solve,” said Dr. Liana Summey, Principal of the Newark School of Data Science & Information Technology. “Advancing to the national competition is a testament to their hard work and to the strength of the opportunities available to students at our school.”
 
As part of the final round, the team will present a condensed version of their pitch in a virtual national showcase, where finalists from across the country will compete before a panel of judges.
 
The Newark School of Data Science & Information Technology is one of the district’s premier high schools focused on preparing students for careers in technology, data science, and innovation—aligning with Newark Public Schools’ commitment to equipping students with the skills needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving global economy.