A Day of Drones, Robotics, and Discovery at the Tuhamasishe STEM Fair

Quality STEM training is essential to building capacity, empowering communities, and shaping future generations. Kenya Flying Labs' Tuhamasishe STEM program was designed with these goals in mind, aiming to foster curiosity and equip young Kenyans with the tools to innovate and thrive in today’s technology-driven world.

Funded by the Eurofins Foundation and supported by WeRobotics, the Tuhamasishe STEM program spans two years and offers an array of activities for students. The program is a comprehensive approach to building a solid foundation in STEM fields. 

On October 19, 2024, we hosted the Tuhamasishe STEM Fair at USIU-Africa in Nairobi, co-organized with Aerolabz Africa. This vibrant event brought together 320 students, over 450 participants, and eight key stakeholders, creating a space where high school and university students could explore emerging technology pathways. This fair was the third phase of the Tuhamasishe STEM program, following the STEM Stakeholder Engagement Breakfast and the “Map My School” initiative.

The STEM Fair was filled with interactive sessions to immerse students in various tech-driven activities. Our training was structured to provide a hands-on learning experience. Students were introduced to technologies like drones, 3D printing, and robotics, each with specific applications. They learned the basics of drone navigation with Tello drones, which included indoor flying exercises and obstacle challenges. The robotics segment used Twin Science kits, enabling students to assemble and program simple robots, sparking curiosity and building practical skills. 3D printing demonstrations also opened up a world of creative possibilities, with students fascinated by the ability to design and print tangible objects.

Each activity was carefully chosen to show how STEM skills can apply to real-world scenarios. Drones, for instance, showcased potential uses in mapping and environmental monitoring, while robotics encouraged problem-solving and teamwork. By blending theory with interactive elements, we aimed to make STEM both exciting and accessible to all participants.

The STEM Fair sparked an enduring interest in STEM careers among young learners, with many showing a particular fascination with drone piloting and robotics. The Tuhamasishe STEM program’s long-term goal is to create more inclusive access to technology education, nurturing a new generation of Kenyan innovators. Events like these underscore the importance of experiential learning and provide stakeholders with direct insight into the demand for STEM skills in our communities.

Reflecting on the day’s events, we observed that hands-on experiences were the most engaging, and that competitions like the obstacle drone challenge, where a student won a Tello drone, heightened excitement and involvement. These moments highlighted the value of experiential learning, showing us that a practical, fun approach to STEM education is crucial in inspiring future leaders.

Our sincerest thanks go out to our supporters—the Eurofins Foundation, WeRobotics, Aerolabs Africa, and USIU Africa, our hosting institution—whose contributions and collaboration made this program a success. As we continue to plant seeds of knowledge and curiosity, we invite you to stay tuned for future updates on Kenya Flying Labs’ Tuhamasishe STEM program and how it’s shaping Kenya’s future innovators.