Innovation and creativity were on full display at Nova Pioneer Tatu City Boys as the STEM Impact Center Kenya hosted the National Finals of the World Robot Olympiad, bringing together more than 250 of the country’s brightest young innovators.
The competition attracted participants from 47 schools across 16 counties, highlighting the growing interest in robotics and STEM education in Kenya while strengthening collaboration among learning institutions.
The annual contest provides students with an opportunity to apply science, technology, engineering and mathematics skills to solve real-world challenges through robotics and coding.
Speaking during the finals, STEM Impact Center Kenya Chief Executive Officer Alex Magu said the initiative aims to transform students from consumers of artificial intelligence into creators capable of designing and programming robotic solutions using sensors, motors and advanced controllers.
Magu called for the nationwide expansion of robotics and coding programs, noting that Kenya must invest in developing its own technologies instead of relying on innovations from other countries.
Some of the country’s leading schools, including Alliance High School, SCLP Samaj School Nairobi and Vihiga Friends High School, showcased impressive projects as they competed for top honours.
Alliance High School’s Mark Wambua, an experienced competitor who has previously represented Kenya and won accolades at international competitions in Panama, Turkey and Singapore, said participating in robotics broadens students’ understanding of technology and inspires them to pursue careers in engineering and innovation.
Kigwa Ridge School also emerged among the standout performers. Led by teacher Sarah Mugo, the school fielded 24 students who secured second and third places during the preliminary judging rounds.
Mugo said the competition’s unique format, which introduces surprise missions during the contest, challenges students to think quickly, adapt their coding and solve problems under pressure.
She added that robotics reinforces classroom learning, particularly in mathematics, as students constantly calculate angles, distances and movement while developing critical thinking and teamwork skills.
Top-performing teams will benefit from international opportunities supported by global partners, including New York University and Aramco, which offer fully funded apprenticeships, technology boot camps in Seoul, South Korea, and scholarship opportunities.
The winning teams will now form Kenya’s national delegation for the World Robot Olympiad International Finals, scheduled to take place in Puerto Rico this December.
