Former Irish Ambassador to Kenya, Dr Vincent O’Neill, has urged Kenyan schools and students to embrace science and technology, emphasising the urgent need to empower young people through science education.

Dr O’Neill noted that scientific skills are increasingly essential, particularly in today’s job market.

“You are not just the students of today, you are the problem-solvers, innovators, and architects of Kenya’s future,” he said.

He was speaking on Wednesday at Moi Educational Centre during the opening ceremony of the 8th National Science and Technology Exhibition.

This year’s theme is ‘Using STEM to Drive Towards a Sustainable Future’.

“It is also important to note that most employers look for skills beyond academic qualifications. It is therefore necessary that young minds delve into science education and skills acquisition in order to remain competitive,” Dr O’Neill added.

Moi Educational Centre Principal, Mr Peter Rotich, raised concern over the lack of awareness about the Young Scientists Kenya (YSK) Forum, saying it has not received the publicity it deserves.

“We need more awareness and public knowledge, especially in schools, for this club to be known across the country,” said Mr Rotich.

He underscored the significance of science and innovation in learners’ lives, noting that it provides a gateway to a more optimistic future.

“Let us encourage our learners to embrace science education, as it comes with a lot of opportunities,” he said.

Mr Rotich noted that Moi Educational Centre is already a step ahead in science education and challenged more schools to follow suit.

The event marked a milestone in Kenya’s science and innovation landscape.

From humble beginnings in 2018, with just 10 counties participating, YSK has now reached over 250,000 students across all 47 counties — including Special Needs and Refugee schools — with more than 750 schools engaging in hands-on scientific inquiry and project-based learning.

Drawing comparisons with Ireland’s own transformation, Dr O’Neill recounted how his country, once one of the poorest in Europe, harnessed science, innovation and education to propel itself forward.

He cited the story of Patrick and John Collison, Irish teenagers who once competed in the Young Scientist Exhibition and later co-founded Stripe — now one of the world’s most valuable fintech companies.

“It’s not just about winning competitions,” he said. “It’s about gaining the skills, critical thinking, resilience and creativity that will shape whatever path you choose in life.”

The former ambassador made a passionate case for the inclusion of all Kenyan students in science education, regardless of background, gender or region.

“Science isn’t just for scientists,” he said. “It’s a way of thinking. It teaches us how to ask the right questions and find real solutions to real problems — whether it’s food insecurity, climate change or clean water access.”

He stressed that YSK is not merely a science fair but a national movement that equips students with life-long skills extending far beyond the classroom. From encouraging female participation to engaging rural schools, YSK has become a symbol of inclusive and transformative education.

The event also celebrated the signing of a formal agreement between Young Scientists Ireland and YSK Kenya, which will deepen cooperation and secure funding for continued growth.

Supported by Irish Aid and the Embassy of Ireland, the programme is regarded as one of the most successful examples of international educational collaboration. Dr O’Neill confirmed that the Irish Government, including the Prime Minister, remains firmly committed to supporting science education initiatives abroad.

“This is not charity. This is partnership,” he said. “Ireland believes in Kenya’s potential. And we believe science is the most powerful tool to unlock that potential.”