nTron™ STEM Kit Wins First Prize at the Cameroon Pachi Panda Challenge, Sets Sights on Continental Finals in South Africa

The nTron™ STEM Kit won First Prize at the Cameroon Pachi Panda Challenge, an innovation and sustainability competition organised by MTN Cameroon in partnership with WWF Cameroon. Selected among the top 10 finalists from over 400 projects nationwide, this milestone represents a powerful validation of Nervtek’s vision to transform STEM education through hands-on, sustainable learning solutions.

Beyond the national recognition, this achievement comes with an even greater opportunity: representing Cameroon at the Continental Finals in South Africa, where the nTron™ Kit will compete with winning innovations from across Africa.

nTron™ STEM Kit Wins First Prize at the Cameroon Pachi Panda Challenge, Sets Sights on Continental Finals in South Africa

The nTron™ Kit

At the heart of this success is the nTron™ STEM Kit, an educational solution designed to make learning science and technology engaging, practical, and accessible for children ages 6 and above.

The kit features 16+ modularised electronic components, including sensors, actuators, a programmable board, and a solar panel. Learners can assemble and experiment with these components while exploring coding, artificial intelligence, robotics, renewable energy, and sustainability in a simplified and intuitive way.

One of the most distinctive elements of the nTron™ Kit is its 3D-printed robot made from recycled plastic bottles, reinforcing environmental responsibility while teaching core engineering and computational thinking skills. By blending creativity, problem-solving, and sustainability, the kit empowers learners to move beyond theory into real-world application one kit per student.

Watch video here.

The Team

This achievement is the result of months of hard work, collaboration, and determination by the Nervtek team. The organisation was proudly represented at the challenge by:

Njita Arnaud, Program Manager, Asobo Subin-Bih Joyce, Education Director, Youmbi Wilfried, Makerspace Manager

Their dedication, and shared commitment to educational impact played a critical role in transforming an idea into a nationally recognised innovation.

Inside the Cameroon Pachi Panda Challenge Journey

Launched on January 9, 2026, this second edition of the Cameroon PachiPanda Challenge invited young innovators to propose technological solutions around three themes: waste management, water and energy management, and food security.

The Cameroon Pachi Panda Challenge is more than a competition it is a growth journey for innovators focused on eco-entrepreneurship and sustainable development.

Last year, the Cameroon PachiPanda was a great success, and this year we have seen a significant momentum from the youth around projects covering many areas related to environmental protection, sustainable agriculture, and renewable energies. There have been many innovative ideas that align with WWF’s mission to ensure that humanity lives in harmony with nature. I am very pleased with the projects presented as well as the winners because they have set a very high standard.” Alain Ononino, Country Director of WWF Cameroon.

During the programme, finalists participated in intensive sessions covering key entrepreneurial skills, including business models and financial projections, Lean Model Canvas workshops, pitch deck creation, marketing strategies, and environmental sustainability masterclasses. These sessions sharpened the team’s ability to structure scalable projects, communicate impact to investors and stakeholders, and position innovation within a sustainability-driven economy.

This experience strengthens Nervtek’s entrepreneurial foundation while reinforcing the importance of aligning technology, education, and environmental responsibility.

The Win

Winning the Cameroon Pachi Panda Challenge marks a defining moment not only for Nervtek, but for the future of STEM education in Cameroon and beyond.

The winners today are proof that Cameroonian youth possess the talent, creativity, and motivation needed to propose concrete technological solutions that can help the country and Africa in general face current climate challenges more effectively. MTN Cameroon is proud to participate in the development of these young entrepreneurs while contributing sustainably and inclusively to the progress of Cameroon,” stated Wanda Matandela, General Director of MTN Cameroon.

The nTron™ Kit directly addresses critical gaps in access to quality STEM learning by offering an affordable, practical, and engaging solution that nurtures curiosity and innovation from an early age. By integrating recycled materials and renewable energy concepts, the kit also promotes environmental awareness and responsible innovation.

Launched on January 9, 2026, this second edition of the Cameroon PachiPanda Challenge invited young innovators to propose technological solutions around three themes: waste management, water and energy management, and food security.

The three winners will receive, in order, 3 million, 2 million, and 1.5 million Fcfa, in addition to training and connectivity equipment offered to all teams. Their preparation continues as they will represent Cameroon at the pan-African final scheduled for February 2026 in South Africa, alongside young innovators from other African countries such as Zambia, Uganda, Nigeria, and the host country. It is worth noting that Cameroon secured first and third place in this pan-African final during the last edition.

This recognition affirms Nervtek’s mission to empower young innovators, equip educators with effective tools, and contribute to Africa’s growing ecosystem of technology-driven solutions.

Looking Ahead to South Africa

With the national victory secured, all eyes now turn to the Continental Finals in South Africa, where Nervtek will represent Cameroon on a broader African stage. The team is energized, focused, and ready to take on the next challenge.

Nervtek extends sincere gratitude to MTN Cameroon, WWF Cameroon, and all partners and stakeholders who continue to support innovation, education, and sustainability across the continent.

This journey is far from over. As Nervtek continues to push boundaries and inspire the next generation of problem-solvers, we invite you to follow our story and be part of a future shaped by innovation, learning, and purpose.

Read more about the nTron™ STEM Kit

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