- Students have been encouraged to take greater interest in Physics and other STEM subjects.
- The outreach programme exposed learners to practical experiments, international scientists and research at CERN.
- Organisers said stronger science education will help Kenya build a skilled workforce for industrialisation and innovation.
Students have been urged to embrace Physics and other Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects as Kenya seeks to build a workforce capable of driving industrialisation, innovation and scientific research.
The appeal was made during a physics outreach programme held at Oloolaiser High School in Kajiado County by the African School of Fundamental Physics and Applications (ASP) and the Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA).
The event brought together learners, teachers and international scientists for practical demonstrations and discussions on the role of physics in everyday life and technological advancement.
Students also participated in a virtual session with researchers at the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN), gaining first-hand knowledge of cutting-edge research in particle physics.
CEMASTEA Deputy Dean of Physics Njeri Mburu said practical learning is essential in preparing learners for the future.
“We are encouraging students to become explorers and problem-solvers rather than relying solely on memorisation. Practical learning builds confidence and creativity,” she said.
Mburu said strengthening physics education would support Kenya’s industrial growth by producing highly skilled professionals.
“Science is the backbone of industrial development, and physics provides many of the concepts behind modern technology and engineering,” she said.
She added that ASP had trained teachers in competency-based education, practical experiments and concept mastery to improve STEM learning outcomes.
“The objective is to empower teachers with innovative methods that make science enjoyable and relevant,” she said.
Teachers welcome training
Physics teacher Vincent Birisi welcomed the initiative, saying the skills acquired would make lessons more engaging.
“The skills we have acquired will enable us to make lessons more interactive and inspire more students to pursue science careers,” he said.
Jemimah Ng’ang’a said the training had equipped teachers to handle emerging topics introduced under the curriculum.
“We now have better knowledge of astronomy, astrophysics and space science, which will greatly benefit our learners,” she said.
More girls urged to join STEM
Dr. Christine Darve said ASP has promoted physics education across Africa since 2010 and urged more girls to join STEM fields.
“Girls belong in science just as much as boys. We want them to believe in their abilities and pursue careers that can transform society,” she said.
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Students said the outreach had expanded their understanding of physics and inspired them to consider careers in engineering, medicine, research and technology.
By Kimutai Langat
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