Strengthening Digital Skills Education: CEMASTEA and Coderina Train Teachers in Coding and Robotics

CEMASTEA, in partnership with Coderina, successfully conducted a three (3) day Teacher Training Workshop on Coding and Robotics brought together 35 teachers from five counties, namely Kakamega, Busia, Kiambu, Murang’a and Kitui. The training took place from 22nd to 24th January 2025. The workshop formed part of CEMASTEA’s ongoing mandate to strengthen teacher capacity for effective implementation of the Competency-Based Education (CBE), with a specific focus on coding, robotics, and computational thinking at the Junior School level. The workshop was officially opened by CEMASTEA’s Ag. Director of STEM Training, Mrs. Gladys Masai, who represented the CEO stated that training followed robotics kit donations and virtual training that had been provided to participating schools. The CEO highlighted that teachers were selected based on their strategic role in advancing digital learning in their institutions, to deepen practical skills and ensure optimal utilisation of available resources. 

Mrs. Gladys Masai, Ag.Director STEM Training, addressing participants during the opening ceremony

 Throughout the training, participants engaged in intensive hands-on sessions covering foundational programming concepts, Scratch, project-based learning, and robotics using LEGO Spike and other robotics kits. The approach emphasised learner-centred pedagogy, problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration, key competencies required to prepare learners for a digitally driven economy. Beyond technical skills, the workshop strengthened teachers’ Pedagogical Content Knowledge (PCK), enabling them to design authentic and meaningful learning experiences. 

Ms.Asha Katana a representative from Codekids, and Mr. Victor Omondi, Coderina Representative addressing participants during the opening and closing ceremonies, respectively. 

The training recorded encouraging gender representation, with 24 male and 11 female teachers supported by six experienced trainers, reflecting a shared commitment to inclusivity and the promotion of STEM education for all learners. Speaking to the participants during the closing ceremony, Mr. Martin Mungai, Deputy Coordinator STEM programme, who read the CEO’s speech, challenged them to serve as ambassadors of coding and robotics in their schools and counties. Mrs. Akatsa encouraged them to mentor colleagues, nurture coding clubs, and guide learners to participate confidently in platforms such as the Kenya Science and Engineering Fair (KSEF), Young Scientists Kenya (YSK), and international robotics competitions. 

Participants engaged in various activities on coding and robotics.

The CEO reaffirmed CEMASTEA’s commitment to supporting teachers through Communities of Practice established under the partnership to promote continuous peer learning, collaboration, and sustained professional growth. These communities were expected to ensure that the momentum generated during the workshop translated into lasting classroom impact. 

Mr. Martin Mungai, Deputy Coordinator of the STEM programme CEMASTEA, addressing participants during the closing ceremony.

Lastly, she expressed appreciation to Coderina, the Ministry of Education, Heads of Institutions, trainers, and all stakeholders whose collaboration made the programme a success. As the workshop was officially closed, teachers were reminded that coding was no longer optional but a critical 21st-century skill and that the future of digital learning in Kenya was brighter because of their dedication and leadership. 

Trainers receiving certificates following the training.