The journey of digital transformation often begins with a single student identifying a gap in the system. For Michael Moses, that journey started in 2018 when he joined the Ngong Road Children’s Foundation (NRCF). Since then, the organization has been a cornerstone of his educational development, providing the support necessary to turn academic potential into real-world innovation.
Building a Strong Technical Foundation
After high school, Michael and his peers were selected for an intensive coding bootcamp facilitated by DirectEd Development. This eight-month program was a turning point, equipping him with a sophisticated suite of technical and professional skills, including:
- Programming Languages: Mastery of Python and JavaScript.
- Version Control: Proficiency in Git and GitHub.
- Professional Skills: Training in project management and collaborative teamwork.
While Michael initially specialized in Generative AI and Machine Learning, his passion soon expanded into broader software development, specifically focusing on the creation of mobile and web applications.
Identifying the “WhatsApp Chaos” Problem
Now a second-year student at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), pursuing a degree in Mathematics and Computer Science, Michael observed a recurring frustration among his peers.
Despite being in a high-tech environment, most academic communication still relied on WhatsApp groups. This led to “information overload,” where vital lecture notes, deadlines, and official announcements were frequently buried under hundreds of casual chat messages. Michael realized this wasn’t just a student problem; it was a challenge for any corporate organization relying on disorganized chat apps for data sharing.
The Birth of Semestra
In October 2024, Michael decided to bridge this gap. After conducting market research to validate the demand for a more organized system, he began development in December. By April 2026, he successfully launched the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) of his platform: Semestra.
Semestra is designed to modernize how learning institutions share resources. It offers a centralized, organized hub where academic information is impossible to miss.
Early Success and Future Vision
The impact of the platform was immediate. Since its launch, 18 classes at JKUAT have already adopted Semestra to manage their academic workflows.
Michael’s goal is to scale this solution across more institutions, replacing chaotic messaging threads with a professional, streamlined platform. His story serves as a powerful testament to how targeted educational support and personal initiative can drive the next generation of African tech solutions.
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