MKU students win global innovation contest in Germany

Mount Kenya University Students Win Global Innovation Contest
A team of students from Mount Kenya University (MKU) has triumphed in a prestigious global innovation competition, showcasing Kenya’s growing prowess in developing technology-driven solutions to worldwide challenges. The team secured the top prize for their project, Aqua-Purify, a low-cost, solar-powered water purification system designed to provide clean drinking water to underserved communities.
The innovative system utilizes a multi-stage filtration process combined with ultraviolet (UV) light sterilization, all powered by a compact solar panel. What set the MKU entry apart was its focus on affordability, portability, and ease of use, making it particularly suitable for rural areas with limited access to both electricity and clean water. The students designed the unit to be assembled using locally available materials where possible, ensuring that maintenance and part replacements would be feasible and inexpensive.
The victory has been celebrated across the university and the broader Kenyan tech community. This win is a testament to the talent, creativity, and hard work of our students and faculty, said an MKU administrator. It proves that when we focus on practical, problem-based learning, our students can compete and excel on the world stage. The achievement is expected to bolster the university’s reputation and inspire other students to pursue innovative projects that address real-world issues.
The long-term impact of this international recognition extends beyond the campus. The win highlights the potential of Kenyan universities as hubs of practical innovation and not just theoretical learning. The Aqua-Purify team is now exploring ways to commercialize their invention, with several NGOs and impact investors already expressing interest. Their success story is poised to motivate a new generation of Kenyan innovators, reinforcing the belief that locally developed solutions can achieve global significance and make a tangible difference in people’s lives.