Since 2018, Young Scientists Kenya (YSK) has been at the forefront of fostering innovation and scientific talent among Kenyan youth.
Through its annual National Science and Technology Exhibition (NSTE) contest, YSK has provided a platform for young minds to showcase their inventions and address local challenges through scientific solutions.
The Genesis of YSK and Its Impact
YSK, a collaborative initiative between the Ministry of Education and the Government of Ireland through its Embassy in Kenya, has made significant strides in promoting STEM education. Dr. Eng. Victor Mwongera, YSK National Director, emphasizes the importance of their approach:
“The STEM approach to education fosters creativity and non-traditional thinking alongside conventional subjects, motivating and inspiring young people to generate new technologies and ideas that solve problems in their communities.”
The impact of YSK since its launch is impressive. As Dr. Mwongera notes, “Since its inception, YSK has reached over 250,000 students, involved more than 750 schools, including over 20 special needs schools, engaged more than 750 teachers, created over 600 STEM networks, and received over 1,000 student projects.”
A Journey Through YSK’s NSTE Contests
The inaugural NSTE contest in 2018 set the stage for future success. With 92 projects submitted by 160 students, it demonstrated the potential for growth.
Wilson Irungu and Abdulrahman Sheikh Ali from Naukuru High School emerged as the first winners with their internet-based energy monitoring and audit system. Sophia Medza and Bakayo Koncharo from Moi Girls Marsabit secured the second position with their project on making construction blocks from non-biodegradable polymers.
In 2020, despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the contest was held virtually in December with 64 projects from 120 students across 22 counties. Keith Brian and Maxwell Okoth from Kanga High School won with their Smart Vigilance System, designed to help the government solve burglary and illegal intrusions.
Jeskah Kaptalai and Betty Khimollos of Ossen Girls High School from Baringo County came second with their project on an eryngo root extract for oral hygiene. A special COVID-19 Response Award was introduced, won by Precious Kigona and Brita Kavete Muti from St. Thomas Girls High School, Kilifi, for their project on creating herd immunity.
The 2021 edition saw Sabrina Chepkemoi and Marrieta Halima of St. Thomas Girls Secondary School in Kilifi County clinch the top spot with their Rapid Covix-Breathalyzer testing kit.
They each received Kshs 50,000, full scholarships to Strathmore University, and smartphones from BLAZE, Safaricom’s youth sub-brand. Collins Odhiambo and Faith Inzauli of Joyland Special School from Kisumu County secured second place with their Motorcycle Fingerprint Access innovation.
In 2023, Vincent Lomor Esekon and Victor Ekai Eweet of St. Kevin’s Secondary School in Turkana County won with their eco-friendly avocado shoe polish innovation, bringing national attention to their county.
Growing Interest and Future Prospects
The exponential growth in participation is a testament to YSK’s success. The 2024 YSK National Science and Technology Exhibition (NSTE), now in its 7th edition, will be held between August 19 and 23, 2024.. For this year’s exhibition, with an intriguing 138% increase, NSTE received a whopping 1,780 projects abstracts!
The YSK theme for this year’s exhibition is “Developing Sustainable Solutions for Climate Change”. The exhibition format will be a virtual-physical hybrid model bringing some attendees to participate in person while the majority will join the event virtually.
International Collaboration and Recognition
YSK’s model is inspired by Ireland’s BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition (YSTE). Ireland’s Deputy PM and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence, Micheál Martin, praised the initiative:
“The BT YSTE has profoundly influenced Ireland’s economy by fostering innovation, nurturing young talent, and encouraging STEM education. This exhibition has not only produced future leaders and innovators but has also significantly contributed to our nation’s economic growth by promoting a culture of scientific inquiry and entrepreneurship over the last 60 years.”
YSK’s commitment to nurturing talent goes beyond the competition. The organization has awarded 210 student winners, with 13 receiving tertiary education scholarships. Moreover, YSK has supported two students in obtaining trademarks for their winning projects, further encouraging entrepreneurship among the youth.
Additionally, YSK has so far delivered 6 national exhibitions and 5 STEM bootcamps, providing hands-on experience and networking opportunities for participants.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for STEM in Kenya
As YSK continues to grow and inspire, it’s clear that the future of STEM innovation in Kenya is bright. By providing a platform for young scientists to showcase their talents and address local challenges, YSK is not just fostering individual growth but contributing to the nation’s scientific and economic development.
The success of YSK and its NSTE contest demonstrates the wealth of talent and potential for innovation among Kenyan youth. As more young minds are encouraged to pursue STEM careers and develop practical solutions to community problems, Kenya is poised to become a hub of scientific innovation in Africa and beyond.
Just like in previous editions, the 7th edition of the YSK’s NSTE contest aims to inspire students to pursue STEM pathways, showcase their scientific research and innovations, create linkages, and build their skills for further research and commercialization.
As interest continues to grow and more young innovators step forward, YSK is set to play a crucial role in shaping Kenya’s scientific future and addressing pressing challenges like climate change through sustainable solutions.
