Since October 2024, 100 students from Illpolei Secondary School in Laikipia County have been engaged in hands-on environmental research, supported by the Youth Learning and Conservation Education Support (YLACES) program. Through their work, they have been monitoring local water quality, analyzing soil health, documenting weather patterns, and observing wildlife, contributing valuable data to improve their community’s environmental management. With a second YLACES grant, this groundbreaking project is now expanding, offering even more students the opportunity to become citizen scientists and deepen their environmental impact.

A Foundation for Hands-On Science

The environmental research program by Naturehub collectives at Illpolei Secondary School is built on a hands-on, practical approach to science. Students have been using professional tools and scientific equipment to collect data across a range of environmental factors. This approach not only supports local conservation but also provides students with the opportunity to learn by doing.

In the area of water quality, students have been monitoring four key water points, measuring variables such as pH levels, turbidity, and contaminants. One key achievement came when students identified a potential source of water contamination in their community, prompting discussions on improving water management practices. Soil testing has also been a central focus, with students examining soil composition to better understand how local agricultural practices impact the environment.

Weather pattern monitoring has been another significant part of the project. By utilizing weather stations to track rainfall and temperature fluctuations, students are helping the community adapt to climate variations, which are crucial for local farming and water management strategies.

Voices from the Field: Student Experiences as Citizen Scientists

For the students involved, the program has proven to be a life-changing experience. Many of the participants, particularly from the Maasai community, have gained a new appreciation for science and its practical applications in their everyday lives. The transition from classroom theory to real-world data collection has opened their eyes to the power of research.

Nia, a 16-year-old student, reflects on her transformation: “I used to think science was something far away from our lives, but now I see that by collecting water samples and testing them, I’m part of something bigger, helping my community stay healthy.” Her experience has helped her feel a deeper connection to the scientific process and its importance.

Kofi, another student, shares how he felt seeing the scientific equipment in action: “Before, I had never seen a real soil testing kit. It’s amazing to see the data I collect being used by scientists. I feel like a real researcher.” His excitement is shared by many others, who now see themselves as budding environmental scientists with the ability to make a tangible impact.

Expansion Plans: Scaling Up to Include More Students and Research Sites

With the new YLACES funding, the program is set to expand significantly. The number of students involved will increase from 100 to 250, with a focus on reaching more youth across Laikipia County. This growth will not only provide additional hands-on opportunities but will also enrich the data collection process.

The expansion includes increasing the number of water monitoring sites from four to ten, further enhancing the understanding of water quality in the region. Students will also extend soil testing to new locations, allowing them to study different soil types and their impacts on agriculture and the surrounding environment. In addition, the weather monitoring network will be expanded, providing more detailed data on climate patterns across Laikipia.

These efforts will deepen the students’ involvement in scientific research while broadening the scope of their environmental impact. By incorporating more research sites and a greater variety of data points, the program aims to build a comprehensive picture of local environmental conditions.

Creating a New Generation of Environmental Researchers

As the program expands, the emphasis will remain on student-led data collection. Students will continue to work with professional scientific equipment, conduct field studies, and analyze data to draw conclusions about their local environment. Their research will also cover new topics, such as biodiversity monitoring, with students observing local wildlife to track the health of ecosystems.

The partnerships with Youth Future Lab and Nareto Conservancy continue to play a crucial role in the success of the project. Youth Future Lab has provided valuable mentorship, helping students learn more about environmental science, while Nareto Conservancy offers guidance and access to conservation expertise and resources. Together, these organizations have created a supportive environment for young researchers to thrive.

Empowering Students Through Real-World Science

The expansion of the program is a testament to the power of hands-on learning and community-driven science. By empowering students to conduct real scientific research, the program is helping to create the next generation of environmental leaders in Laikipia. These young researchers are not only gaining critical scientific skills but are also learning to apply those skills to improve their communities and protect the environment for future generations.

Through YLACES’ continued support, more students will have the opportunity to become citizen scientists, collecting data that will contribute to the long-term sustainability of their community and environment. This expansion is just the beginning, and the future looks bright for these young environmental researchers.