Daystar University and SCOKA to Host STEM Competition for High Schools

Daystar University will on March 15, 2025 host the STEM Competition 2025, organised jointly with the Scientists of Kenya Association (SCOKA).  More than 2,000 students from over 100 high schools are expected to attend.  

The event, which is endorsed by the Ministry of Education, is planned to celebrate the International Pi (π) Day, which seeks to highlight the profound impact mathematics has on our daily lives and the world at large.

The STEM Competition aims to inspire innovation and promote academic excellence among high school students in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).  

Internally, the “Numbers and Beyond: A STEM Challenge for Future Innovators,” is collaboratively organised by the Directorate of Research, Innovation, Commercialization and Entrepreneurship together with the School of Science, Engineering, and Health.  SCOKA is a renowned science sector association dedicated to advancing Kenyan scientists. 

Competition Details

The competition will feature five categories: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Computer Studies, and Biology. Below are the requirements and judging criteria for each category:

1. Mathematics

Participants will undertake both an online exam and a written exam. Judging will focus on problem-solving skills, accuracy, time management, and logical reasoning.

2. Physics, Chemistry, and Biology

Students will be required to showcase an innovative project or invention that addresses a real-world challenge in their respective fields.  Projects will be judged based on creativity, scientific accuracy, practicality, and presentation.

3. Computer Studies

Computer studies students can engage in any of the following areas:

1. App or Software Development: Develop a simple application or software to address a given problem or create user-friendly interfaces for specific use cases.

2. Game Development: Design and develop a small computer game within the competition's theme and resend the game, highlighting its features and how it was built.

3.  Robotics and Automation: Program and control robots or automation systems and design algorithms for tasks like obstacle avoidance or object recognition.

4.  Artificial Intelligence Projects: Develop a simple AI model, like a chatbot or a recommendation system and train and test AI systems on small datasets.

5. Innovation Pitch: Present innovative ideas for technology-based solutions to real-world problems and Include prototypes or demonstrations if possible.

Participation Guidelines

Each category will have a maximum of five (5) students per subject area, and a maximum of 20 students per school. Schools have been encouraged to select students who exhibit strong skills and enthusiasm in the relevant areas.

Registration and participation fee

School Principals wishing to register teams have been invited to register students before 7th March, 2025. A registration fee of Ksh 250 per student only is chargeable for each student attending the competition - whether participating or cheering.  The registration fee should be paid directly via Pay bill number 209800, Account No: 20140-498, by 5th March 2025.

 Gifts and awards:

High schoolers attending the competition can expect to win incredible awards such as stunning trophies, medals, and cutting-edge tech-gadgets including tablets and premium headphones, a treasure trove of STEM books and resources, stylish lab coats, and a whole lot more!

  And to celebrate the outstanding talent, the organizers shall award two exclusive scholarships—one for the best male student and one for the best female student. These scholarships are not just a recognition, but a golden ticket to a future brimming with opportunities and achievements.

This is an unforgettable chance to celebrate success with amazing prizes that are second to none.  For further information or inquiries, please contact the event coordinator Dr. Jane Kimathi, HOD Science and Engineering Department, directly on email: stem.piday@daystar.ac.ke   

We look forward to welcoming your school to this inspiring event!