The education sector has been urged to deepen collaboration with the government and policymakers to create a more enabling environment for the growth of STEM education in Kenya.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 8th National Science and Technology Exhibition in Nairobi, Dr. Vincent O’Neill, board member of Young Scientists and Technology Exhibition Ireland and former Irish Ambassador to Kenya, emphasised the transformative power of shared knowledge.
“From a simple idea in 2015 to a nationwide movement reaching over 250,000 students across all 47 counties, Young Scientists Kenya proves that when knowledge is shared, societies are transformed,” said Dr. O’Neill.
He called on Young Scientists Kenya (YSK) and its private sector partners to engage more actively with government stakeholders to embed STEM into national education policies.
“Lasting transformation requires a strong partnership with the government at the policy level—the key decision-makers who can drive systemic change. By embedding STEM promotion into national education policies, the government plays a pivotal role in training and equipping teachers with the skills and confidence to inspire the next generation,” he added.
AI Training for Teachers Marks Major Milestone
In a groundbreaking initiative, YSK launched an Artificial Intelligence (AI) education program to equip 300 secondary school teachers with foundational AI skills. Delivered through Raspberry Pi technology, the program seeks to integrate AI tools into classrooms nationwide and prepare students for the digital economy.
“In recent years, we’ve seen more students embracing STEM subjects—a shift driven by motivated teachers who, thanks to targeted training, can now deliver STEM content more effectively. This shows that when policy, teacher training, and student engagement align, the impact is profound,” noted Dr. O’Neill.
YSK’s Expanding Impact
Since its founding in 2018, YSK has:
- Reached over 250,000 students
- Trained more than 850 teachers
- Engaged 600 mentors
- Supported 1,700+ student projects
- Awarded 15 university scholarships
- Catalysed student-led startups and patented innovations
“Seven years on, we’re seeing former participants winning innovation awards, leading tech start-ups, and shaping industries—proof that investing in young minds today creates the leaders of tomorrow,” said Ben Roberts, Chairperson of the YSK Board.
Exhibition Highlights and Safaricom’s Support
The week-long exhibition features:
- Project judging and public showcases
- Mentorship forums and industry exhibitions
- An awards ceremony on Saturday, August 9, 2025
Top-performing projects will receive university scholarships, international exposure, and business development support through the Winners’ Bootcamp.
Safaricom, through its youth platform Safaricom Hook, has sponsored the event with KES 3 million, bringing its total support to KES 65 million since 2018.
“We believe that Kenya’s future lies in the hands of its young people. By supporting platforms like Young Scientists Kenya, we are investing in the ideas, energy, and creativity that will shape our nation’s tomorrow,” said Fawzia Ali-Kimanthi, Chief Consumer Business Officer, Safaricom PLC.
As part of the sponsorship, Safaricom Hook will reward outstanding participants with smart devices to recognise excellence and encourage continued innovation.
“Great change happens when vision meets collaboration. Our work with YSK is proof that when we combine resources, expertise, and passion, we can ignite the potential of an entire generation,” remarked Peter Wairagu, Country Director, Raspberry Pi Foundation.
Driving STEM for a Sustainable Future
This year’s theme, “Using STEM to Drive Towards a Sustainable Future,” highlights the critical role of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in addressing Kenya’s socio-economic and environmental challenges.
The exhibition brings together:
- 250 secondary school students were selected from over 3,000 applicants
- 150 teachers, policymakers, academics, and industry leaders
- Collaborative forums focused on advancing STEM education
YSK continues to serve as a flagship program that fosters scientific inquiry, promotes innovation, and strengthens collaboration between youth, academia, industry, and government.
