Matheus David 

Namibia’s young innovators have once again proven that brilliance knows no borders as a group of Scholar Sprouts won first place at the ExxonMobil Foundation STEM Africa Regional Finals held in Cape Town, South Africa, last week. 

Their victory came after competing against 16 top learners from Angola, Mozambique, Namibia and Nigeria, who were selected from a pool of over 3 000 participants across the programme. 

The competition, hosted by Junior Achievement (JA) Africa in partnership with the ExxonMobil Foundation brought together Africa’s most promising young innovators to showcase STEM-driven solutions to pressing community challenges. 

Representing Namibia under the mentorship of Mindsinaction STEAM Centre, the Scholar Sprouts impressed judges with their User-friendly aquaponics system, a creative fusion of fish farming and vegetable cultivation. 

The project features a miniaturised biofilter that converts ammonia from fish wastewater into nitrates to nourish crops, reducing maintenance costs while promoting sustainable food production. 

According to the team leaders, the victory demonstrates that even learners from small schools in Namibia can develop significant solutions. 

Simi Nwogugu, president and CEO of JA Africa, said the competition reflects the “boundless potential of African youth to create meaningful solutions to the continent’s challenges.” 

Scholar Sprouts secured the top prize, followed by Nigeria, Angola and Mozambique. 

The projects showcased practical and scalable innovations aimed at tackling issues such as food insecurity, pollution and access to clean water. 

The ExxonMobil Foundation, which has so far equipped over 3 000 students and educators across Africa with industry-ready STEM skills, was recently honoured as Environmental, Social and Governance Leader of the Year. 

ExxonMobil Foundation president Alvin Abraham applauded the finalists’ creativity and problem-solving skills, saying: “Their ideas are not only impressive but transformative for the communities they represent.” 

For Namibia, the Scholar Sprouts’ triumph is more than just a win; it’s a celebration of youthful brilliance and proof that the next generation is ready to lead the continent into a sustainable, innovative future. 

–matheusshitongenidavid@ gmail.com