YSK Launches 7th Exhibition With 1,780 Projects

Young Scientists Kenya (YSK) has launched the 7^th edition of the National Science and Technology Annual Exhibition 2024. YSK has received 1,780 project abstracts that aim to tackle climate change issues. This year’s exhibition is scheduled to take place from the 19^th to the 23^rd of August 2024.

YSK National Director, Dr. Eng. Victor Mwongera, noted that 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.

“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,” said Dr. Mwongera.

“This year, we are keen on sustainability under our theme – ‘Using STEM to Champion Climate Change Solutions”, added Dr. Mwongera, “The exhibition will have 200 students and 100 teachers showcasing their projects, with an additional 1,300 students attending virtually. The students and teachers will be drawn from 390 schools across all 47 counties, including 5 special needs schools and 3 refugee schools.”

On his part, , YSK Chairman of the committee and Group Chief Technology and Innovation Officer at Liquid Intelligent Technologies, Ben Roberts, said that this year’s exhibition represents a 138 percent increase in submissions compared to last year.

The YSK exhibition 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.

Speaking at the event, visiting Irish Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence, Micheál Martin, lauded the National Science and Technology Exhibition which is modelled around the Irish BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition [YSTE].

“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,” noted Mr. Martin.

The Irish Deputy Prime Minister appreciated the potential of the Young Scientist Kenya initiative, stating, it embodies a vision that resonates with global aspirations for educational excellence and innovation.

“Ireland fully supports YSK’s mission to inspire and empower young minds in Kenya and beyond. By investing in the youth and their scientific pursuits, we can collectively address global challenges and drive sustainable development,” Martin stated.