A project focused on removing lead pollution from water and soil in Zambia has won the 2026 Irish Aid / Self Help Africa Science for Development Award at the Stripe Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition. The winning project, titled “Solutions to Combat Lead Pollution in Soil and Water in Kabwe, Zambia”, was developed by King’s Hospital students Matthew Johnson and Yung Hei Tsang under the guidance of their teacher, Ciaran O’Connor. The project produced an affordable and environmentally friendly water filter designed to address the serious problem of lead contamination.
The award was presented by Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Neale Richmond, who emphasized the importance of using science and technology to tackle global challenges and create a more sustainable world. He congratulated the students and their teacher, highlighting the practical impact of their project and its potential to improve lives. Minister Richmond also noted the high standard of entries and commended young people in Ireland for applying scientific skills to address global issues.
As part of the award, the students and their teacher will travel to Africa through a Self Help Africa schools visit. This opportunity will allow them to reflect on their project, gain first-hand insights, and explore potential improvements. Irish Aid has funded this travel bursary for the winning project for twenty-one consecutive years.
The Science for Development Award is adjudicated independently by judges at the annual Stripe Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition. Judges evaluate projects based on how well students link their scientific work to global challenges, emphasizing the need for solutions that have worldwide relevance. Previous winners include Anaus Syed Muhammad from Bruce College (Cork) in 2025, for HemoSense, a non-invasive hemoglobin screening method using smartphone cameras, and Rachel Hamm and Ella Ryan from Moate Community College in 2024, for Banana Bandages, a project creating biodegradable bandages from plant waste for developing countries.
