Safaricom has announced a KES 3 million sponsorship for the 8th edition of the National Science and Technology Exhibition hosted by Young Scientists Kenya (YSK). The week-long event is currently underway at Moi Educational Centre in South C, Nairobi, running from August 5 to 9.
This latest funding, channeled through Safaricom Hook, the company’s youth engagement platform. This brings Safaricom’s total investment in YSK to KES 65 million since 2018.
“We believe that Kenya’s future lies in the hands of its young people,” said Fawzia Ali-Kimanthi, Chief Consumer Business Officer at Safaricom. “By supporting platforms like Young Scientists Kenya, we are investing in the ideas, energy, and creativity that will shape our nation’s tomorrow.”
The YSK exhibition is a unique opportunity for young innovators from secondary schools to showcase their research-based projects. This year, over 250 students were selected from a pool of more than 3,000 applicants nationwide. Projects span across health, agriculture, environmental science, digital technology, and social innovation all under the theme: “Using STEM to Drive Towards a Sustainable Future.”
Beyond Sponsorship
In addition to financial support, Safaricom Hook is rewarding top-performing students with smartphones, smartwatches, headphones, and airtime. These incentives aim to recognize innovation and encourage exploration and curiosity in science and technology.
The event brings together 150 teachers, policymakers, academics, and industry leaders, who participate in mentorship and panel discussions. This collaborative environment strengthens STEM networks and offers students firsthand insights into real-world applications of science and technology. With STEM being recognized as an important sector overall, this is promising.
YSK has grown into a national flagship program that has helped cultivate a culture of scientific inquiry and innovation in schools across Kenya. It has made STEM both accessible and exciting.
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