NAIROBI, Kenya – Twenty schools from Kenya’s refugee camps in Kakuma and Dadaab have qualified for this year’s Young Scientists Kenya National Science and Technology Exhibition, joining other secondary schools from across the country to showcase innovations aimed at solving real-world challenges through science and technology.
The schools are among participants selected from more than 1,500 projects submitted nationwide for the ninth edition of the exhibition, which opened Wednesday at Moi Girls High School in Nairobi.
A total of 154 student projects will compete under the theme “Shaping Kenya’s AI Future Using STEM,” focusing on innovations in agriculture, healthcare, renewable energy, engineering, climate change and emerging technologies.
Science, Research and Innovation Principal Secretary Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak said the exhibition demonstrates how young people are increasingly applying artificial intelligence and science to address everyday challenges.
“Artificial intelligence is already here, and seeing our young people apply it to real-world challenges like precision farming and solar energy is inspiring,” he said.
Young Scientists Kenya National Director Victor Mwongera said exposing learners to emerging technologies at an early age would prepare them for future careers and encourage innovation beyond the classroom.
“Artificial intelligence has evolved from a novel innovation into an essential skill across modern industries,” Mwongera said.
Beyond the exhibition, students will participate in mentorship sessions, financial literacy training and career development workshops led by scientists, industry leaders and technology firms.
The four-day event will culminate on Saturday with the announcement of winners in the various innovation categories.
Young Scientists Kenya says the annual exhibition provides students with an opportunity to refine their ideas, receive expert feedback and explore pathways into higher education, research and entrepreneurship.
