Young Innovators Take Centre Stage as Kenya Showcases AI-Powered Solutions at National Science Exhibition

Principal Secretary for the State Department for Science, Research and Innovation, Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak,(with grey suit) tours exhibition stands during the 2026 Young Scientists Kenya National Science and Technology Exhibition in Nairobi. (Photo credits)

By: Gladys Karuga

Kenya's brightest young innovators gathered in Nairobi for the 2026 Young Scientists Kenya (YSK) National Science and Technology Exhibition, unveiling groundbreaking projects that demonstrated how artificial intelligence (AI) and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) can be harnessed to solve real-world challenges.

Held under the theme "Shaping Kenya's AI Future Using STEM," the annual exhibition brought together students, teachers, researchers, development partners, government representatives and industry leaders in a celebration of creativity, innovation and scientific excellence.

The exhibition attracted more than 700 finalist projects selected from over 1,500 abstracts submitted by learners across the country after months of research, innovation and mentorship. Participants represented all 47 counties, including refugee schools and institutions serving learners with special needs, reflecting the inclusivity of the national competition.

Speaking during the official opening, Principal Secretary for the State Department for Science, Research and Innovation Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak said artificial intelligence presents Kenya with an opportunity to empower young people to become innovators rather than consumers of technology.

"Artificial intelligence is no longer a technology of the future; it is shaping the present. We must ensure that our learners are equipped not only to use AI but also to innovate, create solutions and compete globally. The ideas showcased at this exhibition demonstrate that Kenya's young people have the potential to become leaders in science, technology and innovation," Prof. Abdulrazak said.

He urged learners to embrace research, creativity and critical thinking, noting that innovation is key to addressing national and global challenges while positioning Kenya as a competitive knowledge economy.

The organisers also encouraged visitors to engage with students during the exhibition, saying every project represented months of dedication, learning and teamwork.

KCB Foundation Programme Manager Benson Masero reaffirmed the foundation's commitment to supporting young innovators through strategic partnerships that nurture scientific talent and expand opportunities for young people.

"We are proud to support the Young Scientists Kenya National Science and Technology Exhibition because it gives learners a platform to showcase innovations that contribute to Kenya's development agenda," Masero said.

He noted that this year's theme aligns with Kenya's National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, which positions AI as a driver of economic transformation, productivity and sustainable development.

"The theme of this year's exhibition, 'Shaping Kenya's AI Future,' is timely and aligns with Kenya's national aspirations. The National AI Strategy recognises AI not merely as a technological advancement but as a catalyst for economic growth and transformation," Benson said.

Masero observed that young innovators are already demonstrating how AI and STEM can provide practical solutions in agriculture, healthcare, education and environmental conservation.

"Today's celebration is about imagination, innovation and determination. Every student exhibiting here has already achieved something extraordinary by earning a place among the country's top science projects," Masero said.

Masero praised the diversity of participants drawn from every corner of the country, including learners from refugee and special-needs schools, saying the exhibition proves that talent knows no geographical, social or physical boundaries.

He thanked teachers, parents, mentors and development partners for nurturing the next generation of scientists and innovators, reaffirming KCB Foundation's commitment to investing in programmes that equip young people with the knowledge and skills required to drive inclusive and sustainable development.

Ahead of the exhibition, Young Scientists Kenya conducted STEM outreach and mentorship programmes across the country, inspiring thousands of learners to pursue careers in science, technology and innovation while encouraging them to develop practical solutions to challenges affecting their communities.

Through partnerships involving government, the private sector, development organisations and academic institutions, the exhibition continues to strengthen Kenya's innovation ecosystem by exposing learners to mentorship, industry experts and opportunities to refine and commercialise promising ideas.

As artificial intelligence continues to reshape industries worldwide, this year's exhibition underscored Kenya's determination to position its young people at the forefront of technological innovation. The projects on display demonstrated that with the right mentorship, investment and opportunities, learners have the potential to develop solutions capable of transforming healthcare, agriculture, environmental conservation, education and other sectors critical to the country's future.

The annual Young Scientists Kenya National Science and Technology Exhibition continues to provide a platform for learners to showcase innovative solutions while promoting scientific research, creativity and collaboration among schools, universities, industry and government in advancing Kenya's science, technology and innovation agenda.