The 61st edition of the Kenya Science Engineering Fair (KSEF) 2025 for Nairobi has successfully concluded at Moi Girls School, Nairobi, showcasing groundbreaking innovations by young minds from secondary schools across the region. The three-day event provided a platform for students to transform theoretical knowledge into practical solutions, fostering a passion for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
Mr. Martin Mungai, Deputy Coordinator for STEM at CEMASTEA, emphasized the importance of the Fair in cultivating scientific curiosity among students. He noted that KSEF encourages learners to apply scientific concepts to real-world challenges, promoting interactive and impactful learning. Mungai highlighted Robotics as a key area of focus, aiding students in understanding how systems work and developing problem-solving skills through hands-on projects.
A significant highlight of this year’s Fair was the application of the SCAMPER thinking tool Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify, Put to another use, Eliminate, and Reverse to develop innovative projects. The Fair featured categories such as Robotics, Biology and Biotechnology, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Environmental Science, Engineering and Technology, Agriculture, and Chemistry.
Among the standout projects was Optimos, an Autonomous Multicellular Transport Robot (AMTR) developed by Shania Wanjiku from Moi Girls, Nairobi. Designed with advanced sensors, Optimos can navigate rough terrains, making it ideal for disaster response. Notably, it runs for two days on a 30-minute charge, highlighting its energy efficiency.
Another remarkable innovation was a waste oil-powered stove developed by Gareth Metian and Andrew Baraka from Karura Adventist School. The stove provides an affordable and eco-friendly cooking solution by repurposing used oil, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional fuels.
Additionally, Roby Akinyi from Kibra Secondary School introduced a motion detection system aimed at enhancing security in national parks, homes, and public spaces. June Koech showcased a fire detection system designed to respond automatically to fire outbreaks, inspired by past tragedies in schools and institutions.
As the event concluded, Nairobi KUPPET Executive Secretary Moses Mbora urged the government to increase investment in STEM Fairs to support young innovators. The top participants received medals for their outstanding contributions, reinforcing KSEF’s role in shaping Kenya’s future scientists, engineers, and technologists.
