The Mt Kenya Times 
Students showcase their projects to Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service Felix Koskei at the opening ceremony of the inaugural Kenya National Research Festival at The Edge Convention Centre.
By Cynthia Masibo
Worth Noting:
- This year’s YSK National Science and Technology Exhibition saw an impressive number of abstract submissions, with girls in Kenyan high schools contributing 54% of them. This strong participation from young girls underscores their growing interest and involvement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
- Victor Mwongera, YSK National Director, noted the significance of this trend, emphasizing that the increasing involvement of girls in technology is a clear indication of the untapped potential in their innovative minds. “By working together, these students are learning to share ideas, experiment, and push the boundaries of what is possible. This environment fosters a culture of innovation, empowering them to develop solutions that can make a real impact on their communities and the world at large,” Mwongera stated.
In an engaging demonstration of talent and creativity, young girls from Kenyan high schools have emerged as key drivers of innovation at the inaugural Kenya National Research Festival. With 54% of the 1,780 abstracts submitted to the National Science and Technology Exhibition authored by girls, the event highlights a promising shift towards greater female participation in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. This surge in contributions underscores the immense potential of Kenyan girls to shape the nation’s future through groundbreaking research and technology.
Felix Koskei, Chief of Staff and Head of the Public Service, highlighted the transformative power of research during the event. “Sound research, information, and data are critical to national development. Research is a disciplined journey that transforms curiosity into knowledge and knowledge into power,” Koskei remarked. He further encouraged researchers to find ways to monetize their work and bridge the gap between their research and Kenya’s economic prospects.
This year’s YSK National Science and Technology Exhibition saw an impressive number of abstract submissions, with girls in Kenyan high schools contributing 54% of them. This strong participation from young girls underscores their growing interest and involvement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Dr. Victor Mwongera, YSK National Director, noted the significance of this trend, emphasizing that the increasing involvement of girls in technology is a clear indication of the untapped potential in their innovative minds. “By working together, these students are learning to share ideas, experiment, and push the boundaries of what is possible. This environment fosters a culture of innovation, empowering them to develop solutions that can make a real impact on their communities and the world at large,” Mwongera stated.
The festival’s focus on inclusivity and diversity was further underscored by the remarks of Evelyn Maris, Deputy Director at the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs. Maris emphasized the importance of broadening participation in STEM fields across all demographics. “It is crucial that we recognize the need to broaden participation in science subjects across all backgrounds, abilities, and genders. Particular focus should be placed on increasing female participation in these fields,” she said.
Over 200 pioneering STEM projects are being showcased at the 7th edition of the exhibition, featuring the brightest minds from schools across Kenya. Maris also noted that technology challenges students to think analytically and approach problems from different perspectives. “This process of experimentation not only enhances their technical abilities but also strengthens their skills in essential areas of life,” she added.
The event’s inclusive nature is demonstrated by the participation of 400 schools from all 47 counties, including three special needs schools, two refugee schools, and one school from Rusinga Island. More than 200 students and over 100 teachers are presenting their projects in person, with an additional 1,300 students participating virtually.
The Kenya National Research Festival is seen as a crucial platform for nurturing the next generation of innovators and scientists in the country. The involvement of young girls, in particular, signals a positive shift toward gender equality in STEM fields. As the exhibition progresses, it is expected to inspire even more students to pursue scientific research and contribute to Kenya’s technological advancement.
The week-long event will culminate on Friday with an award ceremony, recognizing outstanding projects and innovations from the young participants.
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