- One of the innovative projects that is designed to combat air pollution, making cities and other urban setups livable is AirSafi
- AirSafi monitors the air quality index, providing real-time notifications to communities and industries about pollution levels
Image: JOHN KAMAU
As the Government seeks to promote innovation, research and entrepreneurship in the country, University students are increasingly developing ideas and innovations to help tackle a myriad of challenges within society.
One innovation that is designed to combat air pollution, making cities and other urban setups livable is AirSafi by Kevin Gitau and Moses Majengo who are students at Zetech University.
AirSafi monitors the air quality index, providing real-time notifications to communities and industries about pollution levels.
The innovation clinched an award during the inaugural Interuniversity Power Learn Project Hackathon, a competition fostering entrepreneurial and technological talents among university students.
The competition, held at Zetech University’s Thika Road Campus, attracted over 300 participants across various Kenyan institutions.
Speaking after receiving the award, Gitau said they aim to promote healthier living environments by enabling proactive measures against air pollution.
“The country is moving towards establishing smart cities and some are already underway including Konza and Tatu City. Our idea is to minimise air pollution from industries located within such setups so as to make the environment safe and healthy,” he said.
Zetech University Vice Chancellor Prof Njenga Munene said the hackathon inspired students to develop cutting-edge technological solutions addressing global sustainability challenges.
“By hosting this event, we reaffirmed our commitment to nurturing technological advancements and entrepreneurial skills among our students, providing resources such as the Zetech University Innovation (iZet) Hub,” he said.
The event highlighted the immense potential of young innovators in creating impactful solutions for pressing global issues.
“The success of Kevin Gitau and Moses Majengo with the AirSafi project underscores the university's dedication to fostering innovation for a sustainable future,” Prof Munene added.
Similar competitions will be held several times a year.
“As these young minds continue to push the boundaries of technological possibilities, the Power Hackathon stands as a testament to the transformative power of innovation and collaboration in achieving sustainable development goals.”
He called on higher learning institutions to support young innovators, entrepreneurs and creatives to commercialise their products, adding that collaboration with the industry will help budding developers advance their ideas.
“Universities have a major role to play in linking the academia with the industry so as to foster sustainable innovations,” he said.
The competition focused on three major areas; Disrupting the Dialogue: Design the NextGen Social Platform/Inclusive Communication, Smart Cities for All: Hacking Solutions for a Sustainable Future, and Level-up Learning: Building Innovative Tools for All.
Other innovations that claimed prizes include SheSafe - designed to combat financial fraud and theft - and Smart Sewerage Monitoring Project which enhances waste management efficiency.