On November 1, 2024, Arusha Meru International School (AMIS) held its highly anticipated Science Carnival, where over 300 projects from students across various international schools in Arusha took center stage.
The event celebrated the creativity, scientific curiosity, and dedication of young minds focused on finding sustainable solutions to today’s challenges.
FOCUS ON SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS AND ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY
Among the most notable projects was a biodiesel prototype created by AMIS students Gaspar Chacha, Shedrack Mbasha, and Shawn Antony.
Chacha explained, Biodiesel is a fuel made from plant oil. It is cost-effective and good for the environment. Our process reduces global warming by emitting less carbon compared to traditional diesel.”*
The team shared the process behind their biodiesel creation: “We took vegetable oil, mixed it with potassium hydroxide, and heated it to 110 degrees. After mixing it with methanol, we allowed the mixture to separate, extracting our biodiesel,” they explained.
Chacha further emphasized the importance of their project, stating, “We chose this project because global warming is a critical issue. For instance, the ice on Mount Kilimanjaro is melting. Our approach provides a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, which are more expensive and harmful to the environment.”
ENGINEERING INNOVATIONS
In another highlight, AMIS ninth-grade students Jasem Abdallah, Aarush Gada, and Faraj Mohamed presented a Go Kart they designed and built themselves.
Jasem shared, “We designed and built this vehicle ourselves, equipped with a 135cc Honda engine. It can run for 180 kilometers on just three liters of petrol.”
Aarush elaborated on the design, adding, “We used bajaji tires because they are more suitable for the car’s size, allowing for better balance and control. Our goal was to create something efficient and environmentally friendly.”
COLLABORATION AND INNOVATIVE THINKING
AMIS high school students Presley Meleczedec, Patricia, and Tracey demonstrated their project on energy generation through piezoelectric materials.
“Our project focuses on harnessing energy from foot traffic,”they explained.
“This technology has numerous applications, from self-powered wearables to energy-harvesting systems in urban areas.”
ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS IN INFRASTRUCTURE
Students from St. Jude School, including Aisha Saidi, Neema Charles, and Sabrina Mohamed, showcased their sustainable road construction solution using recycled plastic bottles.
Aisha explained, “We observed the poor state of infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, and wanted to contribute a sustainable solution.”
Neema added, “Using plastic as a construction material not only addresses the issue of waste but also helps reduce pollution in our communities.”
Sabrina described their project’s testing phase, saying, “We built a sample road and left it outside for three months to test its durability. It withstood the elements, showing that this method can be viable.”
NURTURING FUTURE INNOVATORS
AMIS’s Acting Head, Mustapha Omary Nassor, highlighted the role of the Science Carnival in fostering scientific talent.
In Tanzania and globally, there are ongoing challenges in developing students’ skills in science and technology,”he said.
“The Science Carnival creates an environment where students can showcase their abilities and understand the importance of critical thinking in solving societal issues.”
Nassor also emphasized the importance of community involvement, noting, “Through this carnival, we hope to cultivate awareness in society about the significance of science and the necessity of innovative thinking to address various challenges.”
He extended his gratitude to all participating schools, acknowledging the event’s impact on educational quality.
INSPIRATION FROM LEADERSHIP
Dr. Ishaan Ahmad Khan, the Chief Executive Officer of Arusha Meru International School, shared his excitement about the 2024 Science Carnival, saying, "Today, we have gathered to showcase the Science Carnival 2024. Just like last year, we’ve organized this event for our school, where students bring their scientific ideas to life by creating real models and exploring the science behind them.”
He highlighted the scale of the event, explaining, "We have nearly 300 projects from our students, and this year, we also invited students from various schools like St. Jude and St. Constantine to participate.
They have joined us with their own projects and are competing alongside our students. We have cash prizes, flags, and mementos to be won. These rewards are meant to motivate and encourage students to think in a scientific direction."
Dr. Khan emphasized the role of the carnival in inspiring students, adding, "Science is everywhere—we can find it in everything around us. At AMIS, we are creating an environment that nurtures students’ curiosity and drives them to explore the science behind everything they see."
A VISION FOR THE FUTURE
As the Science Carnival concluded, it was clear that students were not only eager to showcase their projects but also deeply committed to addressing global challenges.
With many projects focused on environmental sustainability and real-world applications of science, the event provided a platform for aspiring young scientists to shine.
Through partnerships with local and international schools, AMIS continues to foster a culture of scientific inquiry and creativity, paving the way for the next generation of problem solvers in Tanzania and beyond.
The enthusiasm and dedication displayed by the students underscored the transformative role of education in building a sustainable future.
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