MIT Solve

Solution Overview

Solution Name:

FunKe Science

One-line solution summary:

FunKe Science is a platform that ensures that kinesthetic elements are incorporated into cognitive learning at a young age

Pitch your solution.

We are driven by the opportunity presented for learners, with the modern economy demanding these specific practical skills, job opportunities in the STEM industries are expected to rise to approximately 9M globally by 2022. We are actively using our platform towards cultivating these skills in order to address the creativity crisis by developing creative thinkers, who advance to become the most innovative minds of our time.

The experiments we create are tailored towards providing children with the necessary information and interest they will require to pursue science based careers later in life. The experiments are simple and use simple everyday materials that are easily accessible to all at home.

Film your elevator pitch.

What specific problem are you solving?

Kenya’s vision 2030 strategy was hinged on science and mathematics courses. However, with Over 90% of students failing their Math and Science examinations during the last secondary school examinations, this may not be fulfilled.

This mostly stems from the fact that these subjects are highly cognitive, and with not enough resources to make these subjects more practical. Studies show that children are born with a natural sense of wonder, which, if nurtured, develops innovation and creativity. However, with most teaching approaches and curriculums in the developing world- particularly Sub Saharan Africa, this is often extinguished as challenging the status quo is discouraged.

What is your solution?

The FunKe Science team delivers this experience via online classes, camps, clubs and events with the aim of encouraging students to love and practice science.

FunKe Science is developing a platform that is both device and geography-agnostic, providing digital content that supports the new way of learning from anywhere and focusing on educating the masses on science matters both online and offline.

Who does your solution serve, and in what ways will the solution impact their lives?

Our aim is to contribute to universal learning, driven by SDG 4. The direct beneficiaries of FunKe Science will be school going children of ages between 5 and 13. These will be primarily children in primary school into high school.

Having tested out the concept with schools in Nairobi, FunKe Science would like to roll out the platform for free to the disadvantaged communities in Kenya.

Our target beneficiaries for the pivot will primarily be students in refugee settings, orphaned children and special needs students, who may not have access to practical e-learning tools.

Which dimension of the Challenge does your solution most closely address?

Reduce the barriers that prevent girls and young women—especially those living in conflict and emergency situations—from reaching key learning milestones

Explain how the problem, your solution, and your solution’s target population relate to the Challenge and your selected dimension.

Young girls in the developing world are largely disadvantaged by the lack of resources and support to engage in STEM subjects, as they are highly cognitive and lack creativity. These are subjects are deemed primarily male dominated.

Making these subjects more practical makes learning more interesting and empowers young girls to apply this knowledge towards pursuing more science based careers. I envision a world where girls can finally be on a level playing field with their male counterparts- significantly bridging the gender divide in my community.

In what city, town, or region is your solution team headquartered?

Nairobi, Kenya

What is your solution’s stage of development?

Pilot: An organization deploying a tested product, service, or business model in at least one community

Who is the primary delegate for your solution?

Tracey Shiundu- CEO and Founder