Students from across Kenya, including refugee schools, put artificial intelligence to work on everyday challenges
Twenty refugee schools from Kakuma and Dadaab are among institutions taking part in the ninth Young Scientists Kenya (YSK) National Science and Technology Exhibition, where students are presenting artificial intelligence (AI)-powered innovations aimed at solving some of Kenya’s most pressing challenges.
The four-day exhibition, taking place at Moi Girls High School in Nairobi, has brought together 154 projects selected from more than 1,500 submissions from secondary schools across the country. This year’s event themed “Shaping Kenya’s AI Future Using STEM,” is reflecting the growing focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics as drivers of innovation.
Students are exhibiting solutions in sectors including agriculture, healthcare, renewable energy, engineering, climate action and social development, with many integrating AI into practical applications designed to address real-world problems.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Principal Secretary in the State Department for Science, Research and Innovation, Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak, said artificial intelligence is no longer a technology of the future but one that is already influencing everyday life and economic growth.
“As we develop our national AI policy, the government will continue supporting these young minds through mentorship and innovation hubs to ensure their creativity drives Kenya’s future.” He added.
Young Scientists Kenya National Director Dr. Victor Mwongera said the exhibition demonstrates why AI education should become a practical part of learning rather than remaining a theoretical concept. He observed that industries are increasingly adopting AI, making it significant for students to understand how the technology can be used to solve community challenges while preparing for future careers.
The programme includes financial literacy training by KCB Foundation, while technology companies and innovation leaders are guiding students on emerging opportunities in artificial intelligence. Safaricom and Mtoto News are hosting interactive sessions, while Gen Z AI consultant Simran Budhabhatti and Zerobionic founder Maxwell Opondo are leading discussions on Kenya’s AI future.
In addition, Oracle is also facilitating a workshop exploring AI careers, ethical technology deployment and the skills students will need in an increasingly automated workplace.
Participants are also engaging with Young Scientists Kenya alumni, researchers and industry professionals who are sharing insights on transforming school science projects into university research, startups and commercial innovations.
The exhibition will conclude on Saturday, August 8, with an awards ceremony recognizing the most outstanding student innovations after judges complete their assessment of the projects.
By bringing together students from across Kenya including refugee schools in Kakuma and Dadaab, the annual exhibition continues to provide a platform for young innovators to test ideas, receive expert feedback and develop solutions that could contribute to the country’s scientific and technological advancement.
Go to TECHTRENDSKE.co.ke for more tech and business news from the African continent and across the world.
Follow us on WhatsApp, Telegram, Twitter, and Facebook, or subscribe to our weekly newsletter to ensure you don’t miss out on any future updates. Send tips to editorial@techtrendsmedia.co.ke
