Dar readies to host STEM Fair for youth with scientific brilliance

DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA is gearing up to host the first-ever impactful Mathematics and Science Fair that will enable students to showcase their brilliance in problem-solving skills, creativity, and scientific reasoning.

The two-day event, which is scheduled on September 12th and 13th at Shaaban Robert Secondary School in Dar es Salaam, will draw students from different secondary schools across the country.

In an exclusive interview with the Daily News Digital today, Innovation Nation Executive Director Mr Eben Mnzava says the Fair aims to deepen students’ appreciation of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) concepts.

On why they have decided to organise this engaging contest, Mr Mnzava clarifies that both mathematics and science are fundamental subjects when it comes to innovation, problem-solving solving and national development.

“Math and science subjects often remain very abstract and underappreciated by students…through this Fair, we want to make these subjects more practical and engaging as well as relevant to daily life while creating opportunities to connect Tanzania to more global platforms,” he says.

Clarifying on what activities will brighten the Fair, he mentions them as Math Competition, Science Competition, Quiz Competition, and Coding Competition, whereas in their future editions, they expect to incorporate business lessons, working models, and research.

Sharing his insight on the applicable ways that can help students to do well in mathematics and science subjects, he says they ought to be taught in a way that highlights their real-world impact.

“I think the way these subjects are taught matters a lot… usually, they are not taught in the way that helps students to see their importance and relevance in their day-to-day lives… sometimes due to limited resources,” he says.

According to him, the Mathematics and Science Fair is commonly done in several countries like Botswana, South Africa, and the United States of America; hence, Tanzania will also join the cycle.

“For those who will outshine during the contest, they will walk away with trophies and medals… acknowledging their efforts in making this debut Fair a successful one,” he says while revealing that as they expand, more interesting rewards will be introduced.