The Centre for Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA) has intensified efforts to improve the performance of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects in Junior Schools (JS) across Kenya.
Through an expansive outreach and mentorship program, the institution aims to equip teachers with practical skills necessary for the effective implementation of STEM education under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
This initiative focuses on hands-on learning experiences, emphasizing student engagement in practical activities rather than teacher-centred instruction.
According to CEMASTEA’s Programme Coordinator, Beatrice Macharia, these approaches make it easier for teachers to observe students’ competencies, interests, and personalities, which helps in guiding their transition into STEM pathways at the senior school level.
Speaking at Moi Kabartonjo Junior Secondary School in Baringo County, Macharia highlighted the significance of this mentorship initiative in strengthening STEM education, ensuring that more students pursue STEM subjects and align with the country’s Vision 2030 goals.
She noted that CEMASTEA’s program also extends to pre-technical studies, agriculture, and nutrition teachers, enhancing their capacity in learner-centred teaching strategies.
CEMASTEA’s outreach and mentorship activities have been rolled out in several schools, including Kaprogonya, Moi Kabartonjo, Kamelilo, St. Mary’s Mogotio and Marigat Junior Secondary Schools.
The program seeks to demystify STEM subjects, dispelling stereotypes that sciences are exclusive to certain groups.
Macharia emphasized that integrating models and play-based learning helps break gender barriers, encouraging both boys and girls to embrace STEM education.
“The goal is to cultivate a generation of innovative learners poised to lead Kenya’s technological advancements. By exposing students to practical experiments and real-world applications, we make STEM more relatable and engaging,” she said.
During the five-day outreach program, CEMASTEA officials engaged teachers and students in interactive STEM activities, showcasing innovative techniques in mathematics, integrated science, and ICT.
The initiative also addressed pressing global issues such as climate change, reinforcing the role of STEM education in finding solutions to environmental challenges.
National Trainer at CEMASTEA, Mr. David Kireru, reiterated the program’s role in fostering positive attitudes towards STEM subjects among students, teachers, and school administrators.
“We are mentoring teachers on how to utilize locally available materials to teach STEM subjects, ensuring that practical skills acquisition is at the core of CBC implementation,” he stated.
School administrators lauded the initiative, citing its potential to boost students’ interest in STEM subjects. Kaprogonya Junior Secondary School head teacher, John Koros, acknowledged that the mentorship program has sparked curiosity among students, enhancing their perception and performance in STEM-related areas.
He emphasized the importance of making science lessons interactive through practical demonstrations.
Science teacher Faith Bett from Kaprogonya Junior Secondary School praised CEMASTEA for empowering educators with innovative teaching techniques that simplify complex scientific concepts.
“This training has transformed the way we teach science subjects, making them more engaging and less intimidating for learners,” she remarked.
Students, too, expressed enthusiasm for the program. Tony Kemboi, a Grade 8 student, shared how the initiative changed his perspective on physics and robotics.
“Through hands-on activities, I have learned to innovate using discarded electronic waste to create household lighting systems. The visual demonstrations have made understanding scientific concepts much easier,” he said.
Another student, Meshack Kemboi, emphasized the need for practical recycling infrastructure and public awareness on e-waste management.
He urged education stakeholders to expand the STEM outreach program to more schools, ensuring a wider impact.
CEMASTEA remains committed to building the capacity of students and teachers in mathematics and science through in-service training and curriculum development.
By fostering a culture of innovation and problem-solving, the organization seeks to prepare Kenya’s future workforce for the demands of a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
