The project provides a sustainable solution for growing crops without soil, addressing food insecurity, limited farmland, and environmental concerns linked to urbanisation and pollution.
Held on November 5 under the theme 'ACT! Action for Climate Transformation,' the national competition brought together high school innovators from across Rwanda to present projects tackling climate and sustainability challenges.
The winning team will now represent Rwanda at the JA Africa regional finals in Abuja, Nigeria, competing for a chance to vie for the De La Vega Global Entrepreneurship Prize.
Emery Rubagenga, Chairperson of the Junior Achievement Rwanda Board, praised the students for their creativity and courage, noting that the competition is about learning and innovation, not just winning.
'To the winning team, I urge you to represent Rwanda with excellence at the continental finals,' he said.
Keynote speaker Diogene Kagango from the Rwanda TVET Board highlighted the importance of such programs in equipping students with practical skills and fostering a mindset ready for the future of work.
Team member Emma Response Hirwa said Agro Haven was born out of the need to produce food efficiently despite shrinking farmland.
'We wanted a system that could produce enough crops even when space is limited, while also reducing food waste and improving indoor air quality,' she explained.
The team received a $500 cash prize and the opportunity to showcase their innovation on the continental stage this December.
IGIHE
