Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has challenged young innovators to develop practical solutions that can transform Kenya’s healthcare system, as he presided over the opening of the 62nd National Kenya Science and Engineering Fair (KSEF) in Garissa County.
The annual event, themed “Science and Technology for Actualization of Vision 2030,” brought together 1,542 students from across the country, including 700 boys and 843 girls drawn from all eight regions.
The fair, featuring 18 categories for senior schools and 6 for junior schools, is being held in Garissa for the first time since 2004.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Duale emphasized that science extends beyond classroom learning, urging students to embrace curiosity, bold thinking, and problem-solving.
“Science is not just about what is written in textbooks; it is about asking bold questions, experimenting, and having the courage to seek solutions. These students are not just competitors—they are innovators already shaping the future of our country,” said Duale.
Drawing parallels with transformative innovations such as M-Pesa, the CS noted that groundbreaking ideas often emerge from platforms like KSEF, where resilience and learning from failure are encouraged.
He singled out public healthcare as a critical area requiring innovation, calling on students to explore opportunities in digital health, medical technologies, and community-based interventions that can improve access to quality care and save lives, particularly in underserved regions.
Duale also challenged participants to take their projects beyond the competition stage, urging institutions such as the Kenya Innovation Agency to support young innovators in refining, scaling, and commercializing their ideas.
At the same time, he highlighted ongoing government efforts in the education sector under President William Ruto, noting that 116,000 new teachers have been employed, over 20,000 classrooms constructed, school capitation increased, and textbook distribution improved to a 1:1 learner ratio.
The event was attended by Garissa Township MP Maj. (Rtd) Dekow Barrow, NACONEK CEO Harun Yusuf, Director General for Education Dr. Elyas Abdi, Director of Co-Curricular Activities Nelson Sifuna, and KSEF National Chairperson Margaret Njaggah.