Machakos Students Innovate Robot to Tackle Litter in School Compound

In a notable technological endeavor, students at Kilembwa Secondary School located in Mwala Sub County, Machakos, are in the process of designing an innovative robot named ‘Lobster’, aimed at automating litter collection within their school environment. This initiative allows students to dedicate more time to their studies by delegating cleaning tasks to the robot.

According to Kenya News Agency, this project is supported through a partnership between Kenya Connect (KC), a local Non-Governmental Organization, and the Future Investment Initiative (FII), a global nonprofit foundation. The collaboration has provided the necessary resources, including laptops and robotic kits, enabling the students to bring the ‘Lobster’ robot to life.

Mr. Michael Muthama, a teacher at Kilembwa Secondary School, highlighted the positive impact of Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT) infrastructure on the students’ enthusiasm for technological innovation. “The computer lab has changed the attitude of learners in school,” Muthama remarked, emphasizing the keen interest students show during computer classes.

Despite the school’s remote location, the support from KC and FII has opened up opportunities for students to engage in innovative projects. Muthama believes that the robot project will equip students with essential ICT skills, providing them with a competitive advantage in the future.

Maxwell Karanja, a second-year student aspiring to become an aeronautical engineer, praised the project for offering him a valuable learning experience in ICT. He pointed out the practical benefits of the robot, including saving time on cleaning tasks and reducing health risks associated with picking up litter manually. Karanja explained that the ‘Lobster’ robot would be equipped with color sensors to identify and collect litter based on color coding before disposing of it in a bin. Additionally, a computer will be programmed to monitor and control the robot’s movements throughout the school compound.

This initiative by Kilembwa Secondary School students, supported by Kenya Connect and the Future Investment Initiative, demonstrates the potential for technological innovation to address everyday challenges while promoting ICT education in remote areas.