In today’s world, technology and innovation continue to define the pace of progress. Guided by its strategic objectives, the Association of Technical Universities and Polytechnics in Africa (ATUPA) has remained committed to promoting technology, innovation, and the empowerment of youth as catalysts for change. Since 2019, ATUPA has introduced the Youth Forum as a key feature of its Annual International Conferences. The Forum provides a dynamic platform for fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge exchange among young people. It brings together TVET student representatives from colleges, polytechnics, and universities across Africa, enabling them to share experiences, discuss challenges, and build lasting networks of cooperation.
One of the highlights of the 2025 Youth Forum was the Innovation Exhibition, where a total of 33 groundbreaking projects were showcased. To ensure fairness, judges were carefully selected from institutions not participating in the competition and representing different countries. After a rigorous assessment, the top three winners emerged, reflecting the creativity, ingenuity, and future potential of Africa’s youth innovators.
- The top winner was Sustainasip team from Mutare Polytechnic, Zimbabwe. The title for their innovation was “Brewing a greener future: Unlocking the synergies between indigenous beverages and Industry 4.0. This team was awarded a prize worth US$4,000. The Sponsor for this prize was Sasini PLC from Kenya, represented by the Group Managing Director, Mr. Martin Ochieng’.
Sustainasip team from Mutare Polytechnic, Zimbabwe receiving their prize
- The second winner, the INCUB team from Rift Valley National Polytechnic, Kenya. The title of their innovation is “Automatic homemade incubator.” This team received a prize worth US$3,000. The sponsor for this prize was FP & M SETA company from the Republic of South Africa, represented by the Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Felleng Yende.
INCUB team from Rift Valley National Polytechnic, Kenya
- The third winner was Current Dimension (Learning Solutions) team from Ekurhuleni West College, South Africa. The title of their innovation was “Current Dimension Learning Solutions, providing both virtual and in-person tutoring tailored for students in grades 7 to 12, with a strong focus on STEM subjects. This team received a prize worth US$2,000; again, FP &M SETA company from South Africa sponsored this prize.
Current Dimension (Learning Solutions) team from Ekurhuleni West College, South Africa.
The judging panel for the innovation awards brought together a distinguished team of experts from across Africa. The panel included Mr. Lukwere Ham Wilson, National Technical Advisor with Enabel in Uganda; Mr. Mamble A. Wanjala, Principal of Kwisero TV College in Kenya; Mr. Edward Mendy, Principal Officer for Science, Technology and Innovation at The Gambia’s Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology; Ms. Mary Maponya, Executive Head at Fundi Capital (Pty) Ltd in South Africa and Mr. Obot Gondwe, Training Specialist at the TEVET Authority in Malawi.
ATUPA extends sincere gratitude to the judges for their dedication and valuable expertise, and to the sponsors for their vision and generosity. We further call upon well-wishers and partners to support this initiative, so that together we can empower more young innovators to transform their ideas into thriving enterprises.