Article by Dan Orero and Mary Sichangi, CEMASTEA

The virtual training course whose theme is, “Towards developing a quality gender-responsive STEM education through learner-centred teaching and learning practices” is being implemented under collaborative partnership between the Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA) and the Education Development Trust (EDT). The aim is to develop teacher capacity in quality gender-responsive STEM education towards learner-centred teaching and learning practices. The training is targeting primary school teachers from Nairobi County.

Section of the participants during the opening ceremony

Since the emergence of COVID-19 health pandemic, in a bid to continue with the training CEMASTEA transformed its training modules to virtual platforms namely; Google classrooms, Zoom webinars and Padlet Media blackboard.

The chief guest during the opening ceremony was the Regional Director of Education, Nairobi County, Mr. Jared Obiero who recognized CEMASTEA’s efforts in hosting this important course. He pointed out that gender disparities still exist in performance in STEM education.

He informed the participants that the course will equip them with innovative teaching methodologies to enhance attainment and realization of improved performance in STEM subjects. He encouraged them to embrace and apply gender responsive pedagogy call measures in the respective schools.

The Director CEMASTEA, Mrs. Jacinta Akatsa thanked EDT for partnering with CEMASTEA to mount the course and for complimenting the Ministry of Education efforts to achieve its mandate. She mentioned that the course is designed to give the participants an interactive virtual experience.

Mrs. Jacinta L. Akatsa, HSC Director CEMASTEA

She further stated that CEMASTEA has transited its training materials to online and the course can be conducted virtually using various platforms. She said that the course will give the participants an opportunity to interact virtually as they discuss gender responsive pedagogy in STEM. Mrs. Akatsa encouraged them to use the knowledge and experience gained to help the learners achieve excellent results in STEM subjects.

While speaking to the participants the Deputy Director EDT, Sub Saharan Africa, Mr. Mark Rotich thanked the Ministry of Education, TSC and CEMASTEA for working together to implement such an important course. He mentioned that EDT believes in transformative ability of education and that is the reason for partnering with CEMASTEA.

Mr. Mark Rotich, the Deputy Director EDT, Sub Saharan Africa speaking during the opening ceremony

He emphasized that quality teaching is directly linked to learners’ outcome. He promised that EDT will continue partnering with CEMASTEA, Ministry of Education and TSC to ensure quality training and professional development towards improved learning outcomes.