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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about joining, learning, and competing with us.

What is the Innovative Explorer Club (TIEC)?

TIEC is a student technology and innovation club offering hands-on learning across eight academies — Robotics, Coding, AI, Maker Space, Entrepreneurship, Creative Media, Green Innovation, and Future Skills.

Where is the club located?

We're based at the Coderina EdTech Foundation, Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), No. 4 Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Way, Utako District, Abuja, Nigeria.

Do I need any prior experience to join?

No. Every academy starts with fundamentals, and mentors adjust pace to fit complete beginners as well as members with prior experience.

How do I become a member?

Fill out the registration form on our Membership page. We'll follow up to place you in the right level and academy based on your age and interests.

What membership levels are available?

Six levels by age: Young Explorers (6–9), Junior Innovators (10–13), Teen Innovators (14–18), University Fellows (18–25), Professional Innovators (25+), and the Mentor Circle for industry experts.

Can I switch academies after joining?

Yes. Many members explore more than one academy — talk to your mentor about switching or adding a track at the start of a term.

What programs does TIEC offer?

Robotics, Coding, AI, Maker Space, Entrepreneurship, Creative Media, Green Innovation, and Future Skills — see the full breakdown on our Programs page.

How long is each term?

Terms generally run 10–12 weeks with weekly sessions, aligned loosely with the academic calendar.

Can I join more than one academy?

Yes, membership gives you access to every academy, not just one — many members split time between two or three tracks.

Which competitions do members travel to?

Locally we run club scrimmages and hackathons; nationally we compete in FLL and FTC qualifiers; internationally, teams have traveled to the World Robot Olympiad and similar events.

Do I need to be on a team to compete?

Most competitions are team-based, but we help place interested members on a team — you don't need to arrive with one already formed.

How are competition teams selected?

Mentors select teams based on club scrimmage performance, attendance, and role fit — not just raw skill, since teamwork matters as much as technical ability.

Do I get a certificate after completing a program?

Yes, every completed term earns a certificate, logged in your Innovation Passport alongside your project history.

Are certificates recognized outside the club?

Certificates reflect real, verifiable project work, and members have used them to support scholarship, internship, and university applications.

How do I request a copy of my certificate?

Reach out through the Contact page with your full name and term — we'll email a copy within a few business days.

Is there a membership fee?

Yes, a term fee applies and varies by academy and materials used. See the Membership page for current fee details.

Are scholarships available?

Yes, a limited number of need-based scholarships are available each term — ask about eligibility when you register.

What does the membership fee cover?

Weekly classes, mentor time, shared materials and tools, and access to club events — competition travel costs are handled separately.

What's the minimum age to join?

Six years old, in our Young Explorers track — sessions at that level are shorter and more guided.

Is there an upper age limit?

No. Professional Innovators (25+) and our Mentor Circle keep the club open to adults building skills or giving back as mentors.

How do I know which track fits my child's age?

Membership levels are grouped by age band on our About page — registration will place your child automatically, and you can request a change if needed.

Can parents sit in on sessions?

Parents are welcome at open houses and showcase events; regular weekly sessions are member-only so students can focus and build independence.

How do I track my child's progress?

Each member's Innovation Passport logs completed classes, certificates, and projects — parents receive a term-end summary as well.

Is the workshop safe for young children?

Yes. Younger tracks use age-appropriate tools under close mentor supervision, and safety briefings are part of every Maker Space and electronics session.
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