NAIROBI – A graduate of Nairobi’s Sunshine Secondary School, Daniel Akama, is set to pursue a Master of Science degree in Data Science at Michigan Technological University in the United States. His admission into the competitive programme underscores a rising trend of Kenyan students seeking advanced STEM qualifications abroad to meet surging demand for data analytics skills both locally and internationally.

Mr. Akama’s path was significantly shaped by his secondary school education. Mr. Ambrose Rembengot, a teacher at Sunshine Secondary, recalled that when Daniel joined the school in 2014, he was a student defined more by his determination than immediate academic prowess. "What he lacked in confidence, he made up for in determination," Mr. Rembengot stated. This resilience saw him excel in his 2017 KCSE examinations before pursuing Information Technology at the undergraduate level.

Ms. Roseline Nyauma, a computer studies teacher at the school, described him as a "vibrant and inquisitive student" with a clear passion for programming and problem-solving. Sunshine Secondary School, founded in 1995 and located on Langata Road, has a reputation for a holistic curriculum that includes co-curricular activities alongside academics.

The Surging Demand for Data Scientists

Mr. Akama is entering a field critical to the modern economy. Data science, which involves using advanced statistics and machine learning to analyse complex datasets, is a high-demand career in Kenya. Sectors such as fintech, banking, healthcare, and agriculture are increasingly reliant on data professionals to drive strategy and innovation. According to a March 2025 analysis, the demand for data skills in Kenya's digital economy is "skyrocketing," with companies actively recruiting for data scientists and machine learning engineers. This domestic demand, coupled with opportunities for remote work with global firms, has made data science a highly sought-after career path for ambitious Kenyan graduates.

Navigating the Path to a US Education

For many Kenyan students, securing admission to a US university is only half the battle; financing the high cost of tuition and living expenses presents a formidable challenge. The Master's in Data Science programme at Michigan Technological University has an estimated annual tuition fee of over $30,000 USD. Mr. Akama’s journey was facilitated by The International Scholars Program (ISP), an education financing organisation that assists African students in accessing STEM-designated graduate programmes in the United States and Canada.

Formerly known as the Kenya Airlift Program, ISP was founded in 2018 and has since helped over 500 students secure funding and placements at North American universities. The organisation, which has offices in Nairobi's Westlands area, is accredited by the American International Recruitment Council (AIRC). AIRC certification is a recognised quality standard in the U.S. for educational recruitment agencies, signifying adherence to ethical and professional best practices in engaging with students and institutions.

Implications for Kenya's Tech Talent Pool

The migration of promising students like Daniel Akama for advanced studies is part of a broader trend. Data from the Institute of International Education shows a significant increase in graduate students from Sub-Saharan Africa studying in the US, with a majority specialising in STEM fields. While this raises concerns about a potential "brain drain," it also presents an opportunity for "brain gain." Many students return to Kenya with globally competitive skills, contributing to the growth of the local tech ecosystem, often dubbed the "Silicon Savannah."

Government initiatives and international partnerships have also sought to bolster STEM education and create more opportunities for Kenyan students. Ms. Nyauma expressed hope that Mr. Akama will leverage his advanced skills to create solutions for his community and the African continent. His journey serves as a powerful example for other students of what is possible through perseverance, mentorship, and structured support systems designed to bridge the gap between local ambition and global opportunity.