Empowering the future: STEAM engagement in Kisumu, Kenya

Professor Patricia Munoz-Escalona embarked on a transformative journey to Kisumu, Kenya, as part of the Angaza Africa Project.

Spearheaded by Dr Andrew Cowell from the University’s mechanical engineering department, this initiative aims to bring Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) engagement to underserved rural areas overseas.

In collaboration with DeCourcy Alexander as the coordinating partner and E-Safiri as the local partner in Kenya, the project received a grant from the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) to advance the development of a wind turbine integrated with solar panels and battery storage. This innovative solution is designed to provide approximately 100 watts of power to remote locations, contributing significantly to sustainable energy practices.

Professor Munoz-Escalona, a key member of the STEAM team, led a three-day engagement that left an indelible mark on the Kisumu community. The team was able to connect with more than 1200 children aged 8 to 15 through workshops featuring hands-on activities cantered around renewable energy.

Reflecting on the experience, Prof Munoz-Escalona expressed her enthusiasm for providing such invaluable opportunities to less fortunate children. She said: “Providing opportunities like these to less fortunate children is priceless. The focus of the activity was on highlighting the use of renewable energy and its profound benefits for the environment and overall quality of life.”

The workshops not only educated the young minds about renewable energy but also inspired them to consider the possibilities within the field of engineering.

Prof Munoz-Escalona commended the children's impressive knowledge and their active participation throughout the engagement. She said: “I was really impressed by the knowledge of these children and the interaction they had at all times. It was a wonderful experience, and I hope I can continue to inspire children around the world to pursue an engineering degree in the future.”

The Angaza Africa Project represents a significant stride towards fostering sustainable development and nurturing a passion for STEAM fields among young minds. By bringing together academic expertise, international partnerships, and a commitment to community outreach, Glasgow Caledonian University continues to make a positive impact on global education and sustainable technological advancements.