Nairobi: In a move to empower young learners to showcase their potential in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), the Centre for Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA) continues to provide students with opportunities to develop their own STEM projects. Speaking during the second day of the 6th CEMASTEA STEM Boot Camp at the institution’s campus in Karen, Nairobi, Deputy Coordinator for STEM, Martin Mungai, stated that the institution is committed to helping young learners unlock their potential in STEM fields.
According to Kenya News Agency, Mungai emphasized that CEMASTEA is committed to helping students achieve their dreams of becoming future innovators and tech experts by providing opportunities for them to develop projects that address everyday human challenges. He revealed that learners use the SCAMPER method (Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify, put to another use, Eliminate, and Reverse) to foster innovative thinking.
Emmanuel Tito, a Grade 8 learner fr
om The Pearls Academy, is leading his team in developing a Smart Walking Stick for visually impaired individuals. The stick is rechargeable and uses ultrasonic sensors to detect obstacles such as walls, windows, or even ditches and holes, aiming to improve mobility by helping users avoid potential dangers.
Yash Asher, a Form One student from Samaj School, is working on a Smart Agriculture project to help millions of farmers address resource wastage, water conservation, and labor management. The automation of Smart Irrigation Systems allows farmers to efficiently monitor and manage water and temperature for crops.
Patrick Musya, a Form 4 student from Kitui School, is developing a Car Parking Intruder Detection System to address car theft issues. The system uses ultrasonic sensors to detect intruders, triggering an alarm and activating an LED indicator to notify car owners.
Krisha Vishal, a Grade 9 learner from SCSS, is working on a Robo Car that uses sensors to address human errors in driving. The smart car
features security, AI-driven systems, and detectors to scan QR codes and sense traffic lights.
Kimberly Waringa, a Grade 4 pupil from St. George Kiringatah, is working on an innovative ‘Puppy’ project that detects strangers in the house. She believes the device will enhance security by alerting homeowners to the presence of strangers.
Amartya Garikipati, a Grade 5 pupil from SCLP Samaj School, has developed a color sorter to assist visually impaired individuals in identifying colors. The project is designed to organize colors correctly, making it easier for people to distinguish them.
The week-long Boot Camp is set to conclude tomorrow, with students showcasing their projects and giving presentations. Mr. Mungai highlighted the introduction of space science at CEMASTEA to inspire learners to explore beyond traditional boundaries and assured them of support from CEO Jacinta Akatsa in their endeavors.