Students showcase innovation at national science fair in Embu

Students showcase innovative projects to Teachers Service Commission Chair Jamlick Muturi and other education stakeholders during the 61st National Kenya Science and Engineering Fair, on April 7, 2025. [Muriithi Mugo, Standard]

Some 800 high school students are participating in the 61st National Kenya Science and Engineering Fair (KSEF) at Kangaru School in Embu County, where they are showcasing innovative projects that address global challenges such as renewable energy, climate action, environmental sustainability, robotics and technology.

Among the notable projects are a smart irrigation robot from Kisumu Senior School, an electricity generation system from vehicle exhaust fumes by SCLP Samaj School, and a solar-powered gas leak detector from Oloolaiser National School.

The fair, which runs from April 6 to April 12, 2025, aims to promote curiosity, creativity, and hands-on learning.

The competition spans 13 categories, ranging from mathematics and physical sciences to biological sciences, engineering, technology, ICT, and robotics.

In the robotics category, students are tasked with coding robots to navigate through designated points on a mat, showcasing their skills in cutting-edge technology.

A key feature of the event is its focus on student-led initiatives that solve real-world problems, drawing inspiration from local community challenges. As part of their contribution to sustainability, each student is planting a tree, supporting Kenya’s target of planting 15 billion trees by 2030 to combat climate change.

Teachers Service Commission (TSC) Chair Jamlick Muturi emphasized the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education in shaping the future.

This year, six projects will be exhibited at the Regeneron Science and Engineering Fair in the US, and five students, including three girls and two boys, will participate in the Science Students Exchange Program in Japan.

Speaking at the opening of the fair, Dr Muturi called on education stakeholders to create a conducive environment that nurtures innovation and scientific inquiry.

He also highlighted STEM’s critical role in driving economic and social development, urging both students and educators to embrace the opportunities of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, where data and technology are key.

Dr Muturi stressed that platforms like KSEF are crucial in nurturing future innovators and problem-solvers. He encouraged participants to continue pushing the boundaries of knowledge and developing solutions to address global challenges.

Nelson Sifuna, the Head of the Directorate of Field Services and Co-Curricular Activities at the Ministry of Education, highlighted the government’s commitment to ensuring that 60 per cent of students engage in STEM education, recognizing its vital role in national development.

“We have seen pure innovation from across the counties, and we are hopeful that the number of participants will double to 1,600 next year.”

Margaret Njaggah, the National Chairperson of KSEF, noted that the fair encourages students to develop practical solutions to emerging challenges, drawing inspiration from local community issues.

Njaggah said teachers are being trained in artificial intelligence, which is expected to feature in future competitions as the world becomes increasingly engaged with the technology.

Simon Mururi, the National Coordinator of the event, announced that each of the 800 students participating would plant a tree as part of Kenya’s goal to plant 15 billion trees by 2030.