The Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology continue to nurture and promote the talents of young scientists and innovators in the field of renewable energy.

Through its EXAF-JFD Project, NM-AIST organized the Biofuel Innovation Mentorship Programme and Inter-School Competitions for primary and secondary schools on 23 May 2026.

The initiative aimed to encourage innovation, creativity, and scientific thinking among students.

Prof. Anthony Mshandete, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic, Research and Innovation (DVC-ARI), stated that the institution is committed to inspiring and identifying young scientists capable of driving positive transformation in society, particularly in enhancing access to renewable energy solutions.

Prof. Mshandete further noted that this marks the fifth year of implementing the project. He added that students who demonstrated outstanding performance through their innovations will have the opportunity to participate in the National MAKISATU Competitions 2026, as part of the institution’s efforts to provide young scientists with a platform to showcase their research and innovative ideas.

In the 2026 Inter-School Competitions, Mlimani Muriet Secondary School emerged as the overall winner in the secondary school’s category, followed by Kalimaji Secondary School as the first runner-up and Arusha Day Secondary School as the second runner-up.

In the primary school’s category, Nasholi Primary School emerged as the winner, while Leganga Primary School and Kimandolu Primary School secured the first and second runner-up positions respectively.

The 2026 competition involved five primary schools and five secondary schools from the Arusha Region.