African TVET students gear up for Africa Tech Challenge Season 10 in Nairobi

The 10th edition of the Africa Tech Challenge (ATC) kicks off on July 28th at the Technical University of Kenya, bringing together elite Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students from 12 African countries under the theme “Dream and Invent Your Future.”

The competition serves as a continental platform to drive industrialisation through innovation, youth empowerment, and cutting-edge technical skills. Over four weeks, the teams will undergo expert-led training and battle it out in high-stakes contests in CNC turning, mechanical drawing, CAD design, and mobile app development.

“This is more than just machines and measurements; it’s about making history, realising dreams, and unleashing the potential of Africa’s youth,” said Dr. Esther Muoria, Principal Secretary in the State Department for TVET at Kenya’s Ministry of Education.

Kenya will face off against teams from Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, Egypt, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Senegal, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe in a competition that celebrates the continent’s youth-driven drive for industrial growth.

Organised by AVIC International Holding Corporation in partnership with Kenya’s Ministry of Education, ATC provides mentorship and global industry exposure to young African engineers and innovators. It aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which envisions a skills revolution powered by science, technology, and innovation.

“This is more than a competition, it’s a continental classroom and a bridge to a better tomorrow. ATC lays the groundwork for future engineers, inventors, and entrepreneurs—leaders who will drive Africa’s transformation.”said Mr. Zhao Leilei, AVIC’s TVET Project Manager.

In the last decade, ATC has trained more than 1,300 top-tier TVET students across Africa, many of whom have gone on to become engineering leaders both on the continent and globally. The initiative has also equipped vocational institutions with modern industrial equipment and resources, further boosting the quality of technical education.

This year’s edition, dubbed “The ATC STORY@10,” will highlight slogans like “EngineeringAfricaTogether,” “BuiltToBuildAfrica,” and “EmpowerTheMakers” to reflect the spirit of innovation and unity.

The challenge will conclude with a grand finale on August 24th, where participating teams will showcase prototypes and compete for scholarships, technical equipment, and national recognition.

“The Africa Tech Challenge remains a shining example of successful public-private partnership.It’s initiatives like this that support job creation, self-reliance, and an industrial revolution across our region” Dr. Muoria added.