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CEMASTEA has intensified efforts to boost enrolment in STEM pathways in Nyamira County through a targeted outreach programme for Junior Secondary School learners.
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The programme exposed learners to practical activities in mathematics, integrated science, physics, biology, chemistry and Information Communication Technology (ICT), using learner-centred approaches designed to make science subjects more engaging and accessible.
The Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA) has intensified efforts to boost enrolment in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) pathways in Nyamira County through a targeted outreach programme for Junior Secondary School learners.
The five-day initiative, held at Nyamira Primary School, aimed at inspiring learners to embrace STEM subjects as they prepare to transition to senior school under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
Speaking during the programme’s closing ceremony, CEMASTEA Coordinator for Special Programmes and Student Learning, Joseph Kuria, said the outreach aligns with the government’s target of increasing the number of learners pursuing STEM pathways in senior school.
“The objective of this outreach programme is to arouse interest and motivate learners to take up STEM subjects as they transition to senior school. The government intends to have more than 60 per cent of learners joining senior school enrolled in STEM pathways as part of the ongoing curriculum reforms,” said Kuria.
The programme exposed learners to practical activities in mathematics, integrated science, physics, biology, chemistry and Information Communication Technology (ICT), using learner-centred approaches designed to make science subjects more engaging and accessible.
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Kuria emphasized the importance of hands-on learning in nurturing curiosity, creativity and problem-solving skills among learners, noting that practical experiences play a critical role in shaping future scientists, engineers and innovators.
Magombo Curriculum Support Officer George Nyabero attributed the low uptake of STEM subjects in some schools to negative perceptions arising from overreliance on theoretical teaching methods.
“Theory alone cannot inspire learners to embrace STEM pathways. Teachers have already been retooled and trained to use learner-centred pedagogical approaches where learners actively participate in experiments and practical activities,” said Nyabero.
School administrators who participated in the programme said practical lessons help learners better understand scientific concepts and increase their interest in science-related careers.
Nyambaria Comprehensive School Principal David Okemwa said learners were particularly excited by the opportunity to conduct experiments using laboratory equipment.
“The most exciting aspect was the practical component where learners used laboratory apparatus to conduct experiments and obtain results. This kind of learning makes science meaningful and enjoyable,” said Okemwa.
However, stakeholders raised concerns over inadequate laboratory facilities in many schools, warning that limited access to equipment could hinder effective STEM learning.
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“Many schools still face challenges in acquiring adequate laboratory equipment. Increased support would enable learners to gain hands-on skills instead of relying mainly on theory,” Okemwa added.
In response, Kuria said CEMASTEA is supporting schools by providing laboratory equipment and encouraging teachers to improvise teaching aids using locally available materials.
As part of the outreach programme, participating schools received microscopes and other laboratory apparatus to strengthen practical science instruction.
Kuria revealed that the programme has so far been implemented in about 20 counties across the country, with Nyamira becoming the final county covered under this year’s performance contract.
“Nyamira is the last county in our performance contract for this year. In every county, we work with five schools to maximise impact and create centres of excellence in STEM education,” he said.
He added that the selected schools would serve as model institutions to champion innovative STEM teaching practices and support neighbouring schools in promoting science and technology education.
Education stakeholders expressed optimism that the initiative will help increase interest in STEM subjects among learners and contribute to the government’s efforts to build a skilled workforce capable of driving the country’s technological and industrial development.
By Kimutai Langat
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