Young scientists showcase AI innovations at national exhibition
Principal Secretary for the State Department for Science, Research and Innovation Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak speaking during the opening of the ninth Young Scientists Kenya National Science and Technology Exhibition at Moi Girls High School in Nairobi on August 5, 2026. Photo/courtesy
Secondary school students from across Kenya are showcasing artificial intelligence-driven innovations at the ninth Young Scientists Kenya (YSK) National Science and Technology Exhibition in Nairobi, with the government pledging support to help transform their ideas into commercial products.
The four-day exhibition at Moi Girls High School has brought together 154 student projects selected from more than 1,500 submissions, including entries from 20 refugee schools in Kakuma and Dadaab. The event is themed “Shaping Kenya’s AI Future Using STEM.”
Speaking during the opening ceremony in Nairobi, Principal Secretary for the State Department for Science, Research and Innovation Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak said young innovators will play a key role in driving Kenya’s future through science, technology and artificial intelligence.
“You are the co-pilots of transforming Kenya to the next status of economy. I know you are going to do even much greater,” said Prof. Abdulrazak.
He praised students for developing practical solutions in agriculture, renewable energy, environmental conservation and security using emerging technologies.
The PS said he was impressed by projects that use AI to maximise solar energy production, monitor pollution, improve food production through precision farming and enhance child safety.
“Science, technology and innovation is indispensable. It is definitely going to be the engine of how we are going to drive this economy,” he said.
Prof. Abdulrazak said the government has already developed an AI strategy and is now working on a national AI policy to guide responsible and ethical use of the technology.
“It is through AI that we can have precision farming, predict floods and droughts, manage pests and diseases, improve healthcare through telemedicine and drive biotechnology and the bioeconomy,” he said.
He announced that the State Department for Science, Research and Innovation will support outstanding innovations beyond the exhibition through the Kenya National Innovation Agency and strengthen protection of students’ intellectual property.
“We do not want to leave these ideas here. We want these ideas to become prototypes and eventually commercial products,” he said.
Prof. Abdulrazak also announced plans to reintroduce a national robotics competition to encourage more young people to pursue innovation.
Young Scientists Kenya National Director Dr. Victor Mwongera said artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept but a practical skill that learners must acquire early.
“Artificial intelligence has evolved from a novel innovation into an essential skill across modern industries. For this technology to truly succeed in Kenya, our learners must grasp it at a young age, treating it as a practical tool to solve community challenges and navigate their future careers,” said Dr. Mwongera.
Beyond project exhibitions, students will participate in mentorship sessions with scientists, industry leaders and YSK alumni, alongside workshops on financial literacy, career development and ethical use of AI.
The exhibition will conclude on Saturday with an award ceremony recognising outstanding student innovations.
