Young Scientists Kenya (YSK) has received a KES 3 million boost from Safaricom Hook towards its 7th Annual National Science and Technology Exhibition for secondary school students, and winners’ boot camp in November.
The exhibition will run from 20th to 23rd August at the Edge Convention Centre in Nairobi. It will feature 110 projects by 220 students from all 47 counties, including three special needs schools and for the first time, two refugee schools from the Kakuma Refugee Camp and one school from Rusinga Island.
“We recognize that in today’s world, science has helped us solve some of the most monumental societal challenges while creating opportunities that were unimaginable a few years ago. By partnering with YSK, we are keen to help our young people tap into the transformative power of technology by making STEM courses more attractive,” said Fawzia Ali, Chief Consumer Business Officer, Safaricom PLC.
Safaricom Hook’s sponsorship consists of KES 2 million cash support towards the exhibition and winners’ bootcamp, and KES 1 million in-kind support, including airtime, smartphones, and merchandise for the exhibition winners.
“The theme of this year’s exhibition is ‘Using STEM to Champion for Climate Change Solutions’. The five-day event is a culmination of our visit to 14 counties, reaching over 12,000 students and teachers from more than 250 schools, and we look forward to seeing young people showcase the power of STEM,” said Dr. Eng. Victor Mwongera, National Director, YSK.
In addition to the sponsorship, Safaricom, through its Women in Technology (WIT) and M-PESA Go platforms, will engage students and their teachers in building careers in tech, as well as financial literacy sessions.
Young Scientists Kenya is a unique platform for young people to demonstrate their innovation and showcase their scientific talents. The Annual National Science and Technology Exhibition is YSK’s flagship event, providing a unique platform for high school students in Kenya to showcase their capacity for innovation through STEM.
This year, the winning team will not only receive a cash award and the Young Scientists of the Year Trophy but will also have the opportunity to participate in the BT-Young Scientists and Technology Exhibition in Ireland. The runners-up will receive the Young Scientists Kenya Runners-Up Trophy and a cash award.
