STEM Series Hackathon

Where thinking, building, and teamwork come together!

The STEM Series Hackathons are immersive, hands-on challenges that push students to use what they know in Mathematics and Artificial Intelligence to solve real problems. These are not lectures or exams. They are fast-paced, team-based experiences where ideas are tested, refined, and brought to life.

Our hackathons are intentionally designed to be supportive, age-appropriate, and energising, with collaboration and creativity taking priority over pressure and competition

Using mathematics as a tool, not a topic

The Math Hackathon is a 3-hour, team-based challenge where mathematics is applied, tested, and combined to build a working system.

• Teams of three tackle progressive stages

• Each stage includes:

  • A math problem

  • Clear constraints

  • A design-and-test challenge

• The final goal is revealed on the day, rewarding flexible and strategic thinking

Students actively apply algebra, geometry, ratios, logic, and optimisation while working under real-world constraints. There is no single “correct” solution, only smarter, more effective ones.

Winning teams are announced at TEDxYouth Nairobi, celebrating mathematical thinking in action.

Turning ideas into code

The AI Hackathon introduces students to coding and computational thinking in a beginner-friendly way.

• Who it’s for: Elementary, middle, and high school students

• Tools used:

  • Elementary: Scratch (block-based coding)

  • Middle & High School: Python

• How it works:

  • 4 guided training sessions to build confidence

  • A full hackathon day where students build projects in small teams

  • Mentor support throughout the process

Students create animations, games, or simple applications while learning how to think logically, collaborate, and problem-solve using technology. Projects are celebrated at TEDxYouth Nairobi, reinforcing confidence and pride in what they’ve built

Math Hackathon

AI Hackathon

Why STEM Hackathons Work

• Hands-on learning: Students build, test, and refine ideas

• Real-world thinking: Constraints encourage optimisation and decision-making

• Collaboration: Small teams ensure every voice matters

• Confidence: Learners see their thinking turn into something tangible

Optional pre-hackathon training sessions are available to help students prepare without giving away solutions, focusing instead on strategy, teamwork, and creative problem-solving.