Egerton University is set to host activities of the 'Tech Challenge Kenya' after the institution was identified as a strategic partner capable of inspiring young innovators from underserved and remote parts of the country.This follows a high-level meeting between the university’s management and a visiting delegation from 'The Tech Interactive', the Silicon Valley–based organization behind the global engineering challenge.The delegation held discussions with Prof. Benard Aduda, who received the guests on behalf of the university leadership. The meeting explored how Egerton University could support the expansion of the Tech Challenge programme in Kenya and provide a platform for young learners to showcase their engineering talents.Prof. Aduda welcomed the initiative, noting that Egerton University has consistently championed research, innovation and mentorship programmes that nurture young scientists.
“Egerton University is committed to supporting initiatives that inspire students to pursue science, technology and innovation. Providing opportunities for learners from remote and underserved regions to interact with university environments is critical in shaping the next generation of engineers and innovators,” he said.Also present during the discussions was Prof. George Owuor, who emphasized the importance of building strong linkages between universities, schools and international innovation platforms.Prof. Owuor noted that the Tech Challenge offers a unique opportunity for students to apply classroom knowledge to practical engineering problems while developing teamwork and critical thinking skills.The meeting was also attended by Dr. Mulerwa and Prof. Liu Guo, alongside faculty members involved in research and STEM programmes at the university.
Through the partnership, Egerton University is expected to provide a supportive environment where learners participating in the challenge can interact with researchers, laboratories and innovation spaces within the institution.The Tech Challenge programme brings together students from Grade 4 to Form 4 who work in teams to design and build solutions to real-world engineering problems. For the 2025/2026 cycle, the theme titled “Raise the Roof” tasks participants with designing structures capable of withstanding environmental forces.In addition to the student competition, the programme includes Design Challenge Learning, a training initiative for teachers aimed at strengthening STEM instruction through hands-on and problem-based learning approaches aligned with the Competency-Based Curriculum.
The Tech Interactive team noted that the programme has grown rapidly since its introduction in Kenya in 2023 and is projected to reach nearly 10,000 student participants by 2026.Undergraduate students from the engineering fields are given the challenge to Judge the young children. Tech challenge is giving them a vision for a higher level of studies, and that's university."I will give them more vision on where they want to be and have an idea of what they want to do," said Brooklyn, and Engineering student at Egerton University.Playing host to the programme, will be a key role for the University in expanding access to innovation platforms for young learners, particularly those from marginalized regions who may not otherwise have opportunities to participate in international STEM competitions.
By Kurian Musa, Communication Officer
