Scientists of Kenya Association-SCOKA are pleased to announce Aboka Ely, Founder of Phage Hunters Training and Research Program, as one of the panelists at the upcoming SCOKA Youth Side Event during STRI for Society Week 2026 at KICC, Nairobi.

The side event will be held under the theme “Positioning Youth at the Core of Kenya’s Science, Technology, Research, and Innovation Ecosystem.” This theme reflects SCOKA’s commitment to ensuring that young people are not only participants but also key drivers of scientific advancement, innovation, and research in Kenya.

Aboka Ely is a passionate young scientist and researcher whose work in bacteriophage research continues to shape conversations around innovative approaches to microbiology and infectious disease solutions. As the founder of the Phage Hunters Training and Research Program, he has created a platform that nurtures curiosity, practical skills, and hands-on research experience for young scientists, especially undergraduate students.

He is a strong advocate for early inclusion of undergraduate students in meaningful research spaces. Through his work, Ely continues to emphasize that young people should be empowered to contribute to scientific discovery from the earliest stages of their academic journeys, rather than waiting until advanced levels of study. His passion for phages and scientific exploration is matched by his commitment to mentorship and building a more inclusive research ecosystem.

At the SCOKA Youth Side Event, Ely will share insights on youth participation in research, the future of phage science, and the importance of creating accessible pathways for young scientists to engage in innovation and scientific problem-solving.

We warmly invite students, young researchers, innovators, and science enthusiasts to join us at KICC, Nairobi on 19th May 2026 for this important conversation. This will be a unique opportunity to learn, engage, and connect with voices shaping the future of science and innovation in Kenya.

Not Registered yet for this event?? Register here: https://lnkd.in/d3wpri48