Namibia’s Scholar Sprouts Win ExxonMobil STEM Africa Finals with Groundbreaking Aquaponics Innovation

Namibia’s Scholar Sprouts Win ExxonMobil STEM Africa Finals with Groundbreaking Aquaponics Innovation. Namibia’s young innovators continue to make waves on the continental stage. A team of learners known as Scholar Sprouts has won first place at the ExxonMobil Foundation STEM Africa Regional Finals held in Cape Town, South Africa, last week.

Competing against participants from Angola, Mozambique, and Nigeria, the team represented Namibia under the mentorship of Mindsinaction STEAM Centre. Their winning project — an eco-efficient aquaponics system — integrates fish farming and vegetable cultivation, using a biofilter that converts fish waste into nutrients for plants. The innovation reduces maintenance costs and promotes sustainable food production, making it a standout in the competition.

The regional finals, hosted by Junior Achievement (JA) Africa in partnership with the ExxonMobil Foundation, brought together Africa’s most promising young minds. Over 3,000 participants across the continent took part in the programme, with 16 finalists competing in Cape Town.

The Scholar Sprouts’ victory symbolizes Namibia’s growing reputation for nurturing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) talent. The team expressed pride in showcasing that innovation can come from any corner of Africa, regardless of school size or resources.

Simi Nwogugu, President and CEO of JA Africa, praised the event for reflecting the “boundless potential of African youth to create meaningful solutions.” The ExxonMobil Foundation, which has empowered over 3,000 students and educators with STEM skills across Africa, also commended the winners for their creativity and real-world impact.

Foundation President Alvin Abraham said, “Their ideas are not only impressive but transformative for the communities they represent.”