In the heart of Laikipia County, Kenya, the Ol Pejeta Conservancy is known worldwide for its work protecting endangered wildlife like rhinos and chimpanzees. But behind the scenes, it’s doing something equally powerful — transforming the lives of children through education, technology, and opportunity.
From Rural Kenya to the World Stage
Earlier this year, three students from Sweetwaters Primary and Junior School( Brian Mubea (12), Ryan Kiambuthi (12), and Santana Tahri (10)) built their very first robot. Until recently, most of them had never even used a computer. Now, just months later, they’ve tied for first place nationally at the World Robot Olympiad (WRO) Kenya Finals and this November, they’ll travel to Singapore to represent Kenya on the international stage.
Their success is the result of a partnership between Science in a Suitcase and Ol Pejeta Conservancy, which launched robotics programs in six community schools across Laikipia. Over 200 students now participate annually, building creativity, teamwork and critical thinking skills that extend far beyond the classroom. For Brian, the oldest of the team, it’s not just about robots: “We believed that we could do it. And we did not fear other people or any version of their robots.”
Bridging Conservation and Education
While robotics may seem far removed from rhinos and rangers it is part of the same vision: a sustainable future powered by knowledge. Through its Conservation Education Programme, more than 25,000 children visit the Conservancy each year to learn about wildlife, ecosystems, and environmental protection through hands-on experiences. Ol Pejeta supports 36 local schools, investing in classrooms, dormitories and computer labs, over 9,000 students access to quality education. Partnering with NGOs like ARES Education and Science in a Suitcase, Ol Pejeta is expanding digital literacy and ensuring rural students aren’t left behind in the global tech revolution.
Why It Matters
The Sweetwaters robotics team’s journey from rural Kenya to Singapore is a symbol of what is possible when innovation meets access. For communities where digital skills are still a new frontier, this program opens doors that once seemed unimaginable. Science in a Suitcase is now raising funds to get the team to Singapore. They’re already halfway there — and every contribution counts.
Donate: https://scienceinasuitcase.donorsupport.co/page/KenyaSingapore2025