Article by: Rahab Chiira and Winfred Magu

Photos by: Winfred Magu

The Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA) conducted a three-day workshop for INSET Centre Principals, from 12^th -14^th August, 2024, at CEMASTEA. The workshop, theme “Enhancing Management of CEMASTEA Activities at the County Level for Effective Implementation of STEM Education,” brought together principals of INSET centers from across the country to focus on improving the quality and management of INSET centers.

Seated front row Left to Right: Mrs. Jacinta Akatsa- CEO, CEMASTEA, Dr. Pius Mutisya, OGW-Chair Board of Governors CEMASTEA, Mr. Patrick Kogolla, Ag. Director STEM, Training, Professor Ami Ikeda- Hishorima University, INSET Principals and Staff from CEMASTE pose for a group photo during the Opening ceremony held on August 12, 2024 at CEMASTEA

The workshop was officially opened by Dr. Pius Mutisya, OGW-Chair of the CEMASTEA Board of Governors. In his opening address, Dr. Mutisya highlighted the critical role INSET Centre Principals play in the effective implementation of CEMASTEA’s training programmes at the counties. He emphasized the need for effective management of resources at the county level, ensuring that STEM education is accessible and equitable for all learners. Dr. Mutisya also reiterated CEMASTEA’s commitment to supporting capacity development programmes to ensure quality teaching and learning across the country.

CEMASTEA’s Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Jacinta Akatsa, HSC also addressed the participants during the opening ceremony. Mrs. Akatsa welcomed the principals and underscored CEMASTEA’s vision of building a creative and innovative STEM society in Africa. She urged participants to take an active role in providing strategic leadership within their respective counties and schools, in ensuring the smooth implementation of cascaded training programmes. She stressed the importance of aligning with CEMASTEA’s mission of continuously developing capacity in STEM education through training, research, and innovation. 

Throughout the workshop, the principals engaged in discussions on the challenges they face in managing INSET centers and explored practical strategies for improving the hosting of teacher training programmes. Among the topics covered were prudent financial management of STEM resources, compliance with procurement laws, and promoting teacher professional development. Participants also shared feedback on CEMASTEA activities and research findings, providing valuable insights into the impact of teacher capacity development programmes.

INSET Principals participating in the various hands-on activities

Left to right: A tour of CEMASTEA facilities, in the mathematics and innovations rooms respectively where they engaged with various teaching and learning resources and a visit to the tree nursery where they were sensitized on the various tree species.

During the closing ceremony, Dr. William K. Sugut, Director of Secondary Education at the Ministry of Education, commended CEMASTEA for its efforts in organising the workshop. He emphasized the Ministry's commitment to supporting CEMASTEA's intervention programmes in STEM education, particularly in enhancing the quality of training provided at the county level. Dr. Sugut called upon the INSET center principals to maintain a high standard in managing the INSET Centres, ensuring that resources are effectively utilized and that training environments are conducive to learning.

Seated front row Left to Right: Mr. Patrick Kogolla, Ag. Director STEM, Training, Dr. William K. Sugut, Director of Secondary Education- Ministry of Education, Professor Ami Ikeda- Hishorima University, INSET Principals and Staff from CEMASTE pose for a group photo during the Opening ceremony held on August 14,2024 at CEMASTEA

In her closing remarks, Mrs. Akatsa expressed her gratitude to the participants and staff for their dedication throughout the workshop. She noted that the objectives of the workshop had been achieved, with participants gaining new insights into managing county-level training programs. Mrs. Akatsa encouraged the principals to implement the workshop’s resolutions and translate them into actionable strategies within their schools to further enhance STEM education.

The three-day workshop concluded with a renewed commitment to improving the management of CEMASTEA activities across the country, ensuring the continued success of STEM education programs.

Article by: John Livingstone Makanda and Winfred Magu

Photos: Winfred Magu

CEMASTEA successfully hosted a week-long training program from 2^nd to 6^th September 2024, aimed at enhancing the competencies of teachers from Rwanda’s Liquidnet Family High School @ The Agaho-Shalom Youth Village (LFHS@ASYV) and Gashora Girls Academy of Science and Technology (GGAST). The training focused on integrating holistic learning practices to develop well-rounded, innovative, and emotionally resilient learners. The training was themed Enhancing teachers’ competences in implementing holistic learning.

The Course Objectives were to:

1. Implement learner centered lessons that promote critical thinking and problem solving;
2. Infuse Social Emotional Learning (SEL) approach in teaching/learning to produce an all-round learner;
3. Apply appropriate knowledge and skills on mental health issues and provide psychosocial support to learners.
4. Appreciate the role of teachers in implementing holistic learner development.

During the opening ceremony, Dr. Belio Kipsang, the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Education’s State Department for Basic Education, was represented by Mr. Yusuf Karuyu- Director Teacher Management MOE and Board Member CEMASTEA while reading the speech emphasized the importance of the initiative. He commended the longstanding partnership between Kenya and Rwanda, noting that the course reflected a shared commitment to building an education system that nurtures not only knowledge but also creativity and innovation among learners. He reiterated that education plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of society and stressed that holistic learning was essential to preparing young people for the challenges of the 21^st century.

Front row left to right:  Mrs. Clotilda Murambi, Mr. John Livingstone Makanda, Ngina Kairu, Member, Board of Governors, CEMASTEA, Mrs. Stella Wayianzuvuko- Principal, LFHS@ASYV, Mr. Yusuf Karayu- Director Teacher Management, MOE and Board Member- CEMASTEA, Mrs. Jacinta Akatsa, HSC, CEO- CEMASTEA, Habiyambere Theophile GGAST-Deputy Principal, Mr. Patrick Kogolla Ag. Director STEM- CEMASTEA and Martin Mungai, teachers and CEMASTEA staff pose for a group photo during the opening ceremony held on September 2, 2024

The training aligned with international frameworks, including the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which focused on inclusive growth and sustainable development. Dr. Kipsang explained how the program aimed to enhance teachers' pedagogical skills through learner-centered practices, incorporating components such as Social Emotional Learning (SEL), mental health, psychosocial support, and learning through play. He noted that these approaches would enable teachers to address the evolving educational needs of students.

He encouraged them to take full advantage of the training, exchange ideas, and apply the knowledge and skills gained in their respective schools. He praised CEMASTEA for its commitment to advancing teacher education across Africa, assuring the participants that they were in capable hands throughout the course.

Speaking during the closing ceremony, Ms. Stella Wayianzuvuko, Admin Principal at LFHS@ASYV, noted that the week-long workshop sparked creativity among participants, which was evident in the various sessions. She encouraged the teachers to introduce activities that integrate play into learning, particularly for demystifying STEM subjects. On Gender Responsive Pedagogy, she advised them not to impose knowledge on students but to foster an inclusive approach. Lastly, she urged the participants to implement what they had learned and promote peer teaching, emphasizing their shared goal of student success.

The closing ceremony, led by CEMASTEA’s Chief Executive Officer, Jacinta L. Akatsa, HSC, marked the successful conclusion of the program. Ms. Akatsa commended the participants for their dedication and active engagement throughout the week. Reflecting on the central theme of holistic learning, she emphasized that it involves nurturing not just the intellect but also the body and spirit. She encouraged the teachers to continue expanding their knowledge and skills, highlighting that the competencies developed during the training would have lasting benefits for both educators and students.

Ms. Akatsa also acknowledged CEMASTEA’s strong focus on STEM education, expressing her hope that the participants would return to their schools with practical strategies for implementing holistic learning. She praised CEMASTEA's facilitators and technical staff for their role in ensuring the success of the training.

Front row Seated: Mr. Isaac Gathambiri, Mr. John Livingstone Makanda, Mr. Patrick Kogolla Ag. Director STEM- CEMASTEA, Mrs. Jacinta Akatsa, HSC, CEO CEMASTEA- Chief Guest, Habiyambere Theophile GGAST-Deputy Principal, Ms. Stella Wayianzuvuko- Principal, LFHS@ASYV, Samiah Millycent, GGAST- Rwanda, teachers and CEMASTEA staff pose for a group photo during the closing ceremony held on September 9, 2024

In her closing remarks, Ms. Akatsa lauded the teachers for their resilience and enthusiasm and expressed optimism that the collaboration between CEMASTEA and the Rwandan schools would lead to enduring improvements in educational practices. She extended her best wishes to the participants, urging them to share their experiences and insights with their schools.

The successful completion of the training reinforced the strength of cross-border partnerships in education. CEMASTEA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the professional development of teachers and enhancing the quality of education across the continent.

The sessions which were highly interactive saw the participants involved in hands on activities.

Participants engaging in various hands-on activities during the weeklong training

By LMakanda/AMumbi/WMagu/DOrero

The collaborative efforts between CEMASTEA and the Directorate of Quality Assurance and Standards are set to significantly improve the quality of STEM education in Kenya's early learning and basic education institutions. By fostering communities of good practice and promoting STEM-related activities, the basic education sector will be transformed to meet the aspirations of learners, teachers, parents, and other stakeholders. They have also started a collaborative programme for supporting the Junior Secondary (JS) teachers at school level to actualize learner centered strategies such as inquiry-based learning that forms part of what the teachers are trained on. The mission of CEMASTEA is to continuously develop competencies for sustainable development through Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Education. The Centre therefore seeks to build capacities in STEM education by nurturing talents in STEM at the basic education to eventually create a sufficient pool of learners with interest in pursuing the STEM Pathway at Senior School, STEM related courses in higher education and STEM related careers. With the support of the Ministry of Education CEMASTEA has continuously enhanced the capacity of JS teachers handling the STEM related learning areas.

A three-day training, themed: “Enhancing the capacity of QASO to monitor and support JS Teachers of STEM related subjects for effective implementation of the Competency Based Curriculum that targeted 358 Quality Standards and Assurance Officers (QASOs) based at the sub-county and county levels and drawn from 47 counties, as well as some from MoE headquarters took place from 27th to 29^th May 2024 running concurrently in three training venues namely; Kakamega Nakuru and Machakos.

The training aimed at sharpening the QASO’S knowledge and skills to ensure effective and successful delivery of support to teachers in Junior school and to reflect and strategize on effective implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). It focused on the topical areas in education such as Feedback on Classroom lesson observation, interpretation of Curriculum Designs, Learner Centred Pedagogies and ICT Management Tools and Curriculum Delivery Support, related activities in STEM education, and topics that related to their work. The training was presided over by Dr. Pius Mutisya, OGW, Chairman of Board of Directors, CEMASTEA, CEO CEMASTEA, Mrs. Jacinta Akatsa, HSC and guests from the Ministry of Education.

While applauding CEMASTEA for setting up very high standards in training for STEM, the guests emphasized the important role CEMASTEA plays in Training and Research. The theme of the training was noted to provide an opportunity for in-depth discussion on various aspects such as: Evaluating lessons for effective teacher support, describing learner-centered approaches; Understanding lesson study; Developing strategies for teacher support; and appreciating the role of QASOs in supporting teachers.

Chief guests during the opening and closing ceremonies. From left: Dr. Pius Mutisya, OGW, Chairman of Board of Directors, CEMASTEA Dr. William Sugut, Head - Senior School Directorate, Dr. Gichuhi Ndegwa, Deputy Head - Directorate of Policy, Partnership and East Africa Community Affairs, Regional Director of Education (RDE) Eastern Region, Mr. Fredrick Kiiru, Regional Director of Education Rift Valley, Mr. Milton Nzyoka

The importance of collaboration and cohesion in enhancing the quality of STEM education was underscored. Participants were urged to provide leadership in the areas of their respective responsibility, noting the need for QASO’s to support the JS teachers even as they carried out curriculum implementation. Quality Standards and Assurance Officers it was noted, provided pedagogical leadership and monitoring curriculum delivery. Working collaboratively with the Ministry of Education would ensure 60% transition of the JS learners to the STEM pathway in Senior School would be achieved, which would eventually transform STEM education in Kenya.

The Head - Directorate of Quality Assurance and Standards, Madam Evelyne Owoko reiterated that the Directorate plays a critical role in the education sector, as it is tasked with ensuring the overall success of the education reforms hence play a critical role in curriculum implementation. Ms. Okowo reminded the QASOs of their mandate: to monitor and evaluate the standards and quality of education as it gives an opportunity to professionally inform policy. She highlighted the importance of pedagogical content knowledge, which enables teachers to synthesize pedagogical and subject matter knowledge for effective lesson planning and delivery. She noted that varied pedagogical skills help teachers tailor their lessons to meet different students' needs, thereby improving lesson delivery and learning experiences. She stressed that QASOs are essential in supporting teachers through school-based monitoring and providing timely feedback. This support extends to school administrators, ensuring quality education and effective governance.

Representing the Director of Quality Assurance and Standard, MoE: From left; Mary Mullu in Nakuru, Mr. Joseph Wambua in Kakamega and Mr. Lawrence Kaburu in Machakos

Ms. Owoko reiterated that the training aimed to equip QASOs with the skills necessary to support teachers, particularly in STEM subjects. She called upon participants to maximize their engagement during the training to enhance their pedagogical skills and knowledge. The participants were encouraged to embrace long life learning and the importance of being abreast with the current technologies that would ensure that they meet the stakeholders’ expectations. She encouraged QASOs to mentor and coach teachers in order to enhance curriculum delivery skills.

It was evident that Quality and Standards Officers play an instrumental role to ensure sustainable implementation of STEM education in schools leading to effective and efficient Curriculum Implementation and the success of CBC. By ensuring quality in education which needed to regain its center stage for. This would depend not just on its planning and implementation but on continuous improvement using data and information from the field. Consequently, the collection and analysis of the data on the quality and standards of practices is feedback in education through sustained monitoring, evaluation and support of school leadership and instructional practices was an integral part of providing quality education in the implementation of CBC.

Mrs. Jacinta Akatsa, HSC addressing participants during the closing ceremony of the QASO workshop in Kakamega.

Representing the CEO CEMASTEA in other regions were from left: Madam Lydia Muriithi, Deputy Director, CEMASTEA in Nakuru, and Mr. Patrick Kogolla in Machakos.

Participants were appreciated for their active participation and deliberations as the training had provided an opportunity for both participants and CEMASTEA to reflect and strategize on how to ensure effective implementation of CBC and related activities in STEM education. They were challenged to dream big, practice what they have learnt and help ensure success in STEM education even as they went about their duties.

Following the training that had brought together, QASOs from MoE headquarters, Regional, County, and Sub-Counties across the 47 Counties, held in three Centres; Kakamega, Machakos and Nakuru, participants were able to evaluate lessons for effective teacher support at classroom level; Describe learner centered approaches that promote effective implementation of the curriculum; Demonstrate understanding of lesson study as a form of teacher support at school level; Develop strategies for teachers support at school level for improved learning outcomes; and Appreciate their role in supporting JS teachers at school level for effective curriculum implementation.

By PKogolla/WMagu /Blessing Kemunto

CEMASTEA’s primary mission is to continually enhance teacher proficiency in Pedagogical Content Knowledge (PCK) through In-Service Education and Training (INSET). Over time, CEMASTEA has trained educators in learner-centered strategies such as Inquiry-Based Learning (IBL), Problem-Based Learning (PBL), Lesson study, and ICT integration for teaching and learning. During training, teachers model lessons and share their teaching and learning experiences.

Recently, a pilot symposium was held at CEMASTEA on June 29, 2024, with the aim to inform the scaling up of this activity in subsequent years. The symposium targeted four counties: Nairobi, Machakos, Kiambu, and Kajiado. It brought together science and mathematics teachers from Junior Schools and Secondary Schools, along with other educators, to exchange best practices in the classroom.

The specific objectives of the symposium were to: Share innovative classroom practices; Facilitate knowledge and skill exchange among teachers for effective implementation of innovative approaches and Establish communities of practice among teachers, providing a platform for collaboration and networking through the CEMASTEA website and portal. Participating teachers and stakeholders used the symposium as an opportunity to exchange ideas and collaborate on best classroom practices, aiming to enhance the quality of education provided to students. They explored innovative pedagogical approaches in science and mathematics education. Additionally, the forum allowed participants to connect with colleagues from different schools and regions, fostering community and collaboration within the education sector.

Overall, the science and mathematics teachers’ symposium at CEMASTEA serves as a valuable platform for professional growth, collaboration, and continuous improvement in STEM education. It contributes to advancing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics by facilitating the dissemination of discoveries and fostering dialogue among experts. Furthermore, the symposium aims to disseminate new insights into teaching and promote dialogue among educators. CEMASTEA plans to regularly organize teacher symposiums, providing an opportunity for teachers to learn from one another, address challenges, and promote innovation to continuously improve their classroom practices.

This initiative is particularly important as Kenya transitions to the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), emphasizing competencies such as collaboration and communication skills. The symposium plays a crucial role in promoting innovative classroom practices for learning mathematics and science. During the one-day pilot symposium at CEMASTEA, presentations of innovative lessons, as well as panel and plenary discussions on innovative classroom practices. Outstanding teachers who participated, prepared and recorded exemplary lessons, that identified outstanding innovations in the subject/learning area. were awarded.

Outstanding teachers in four categories receiving awards from CEO CEMASTEA, Mrs. Jacinta Akatsa, HSC

Nathaniel Melita from Sholinke Primary & Junior School                 Jane Francisca Sakwa from Pangani Girls School in Nairobi County in Kajiado County.