CEMASTEA Advancing STEM Education
By Dan Orero
The 21st century demands skills such as critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, communication, information literacy and adaptability are essential for thriving in today's fast-paced, interconnected world. It is important to prepare learners towards developing broader competencies such as: working well with others, communicating clearly, being flexible and innovative so that they can effectively use the skills in solving real-life problems. In line with this, the Homa Bay County Education Day was held on March 27, 2025 at Homa Bay High School. The event brought together various education stakeholders, providing an opportunity for the Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA) to showcase its innovative, practical approaches to strengthening Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education. These efforts aim to equip learners with the skills and confidence needed to pursue STEM related careers.
Hon. Julius Migos Ogamba, the Cabinet Secretary for Education and H.E. Governor Gladys Wanga of Homa Bay County engaging with the CEMASTEA team at their booth during the Homa Bay County Education & Prize Giving Day at Homa Bay High School.
The event was graced by the Cabinet Secretary for Education, Hon. Julius Migos Ogamba and H.E. Governor Gladys Wanga of Homa Bay County alongside senior regional and national government officials. Addressing the gathering, the CS commended CEMASTEA for its strides in teacher capacity building through retooling programmes in collaboration with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC). CEMASTEA’s involvement in the event culminated in a STEM outreach and mentorship programme for Homa Bay Primary and Junior School learners. Mr. Richard Jakomanyo, National Trainer at CEMASTEA highlighted the programmes focus on equipping Grade 9 learners with practical skills in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics and pre-technical studies as they prepare for transition to senior school. One of the facilitators, Mr. Jakomanyo emphasized the importance of strengthening STEM pathway to align learners' skills with job market demands and foster the nation’s socio-economic growth. He also underscored the need for increased investment in equipping laboratories in junior schools to provide learners with hands-on experience. “Practical experiments, simulations and problem-solving activities encourage active engagement in the learning process, fostering critical thinking and creativity,” Jakomanyo stated.
Madam Njeri Mburu, a National Trainer at CEMASTEA guiding learners through an engaging Physics education session during the STEM Outreach at Homa Bay Primary & Junior School.
Mr. Philip Aduda, Homa Bay primary and junior school's head of institution urged CEMASTEA to expand its outreach programme to more schools, emphasizing that STEM education would open up numerous career opportunities for learners. Learners expressed their excitement and appreciation for the programme. Phoebe Esther, a Grade nine learner shared how the practical lessons enhanced her understanding of geometry, boosting her confidence for upcoming assessments. Another learner, Gerald Odhiambo was thrilled to use a microscope to observe plant cells, the first in his learning experience. STEM continues to play a crucial role in driving Kenya’s industrial development. The government has implemented initiatives to integrate STEM education from early childhood to higher education. These efforts aim to foster innovation, develop a technically skilled workforce and address pressing challenges such as food security, healthcare and environmental sustainability. Through its programmes, CEMASTEA is effectively addressing gaps in STEM education by fostering growth through targeted training and innovative research initiatives.