The Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA) has embarked on a transformative journey with the launch of its Strategic Plan for 2023–2027. Aimed at bolstering STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education in Kenya, this initiative promises to reshape educational practices and foster socio-economic development.
The unveiling ceremony, attended by key stakeholders including Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu, highlighted the critical role of CEMASTEA in bridging the global skills gap in STEM fields. Machogu, speaking through Ministry of Education’s Director of Projects Coordination Elija Mungai, emphasized the plan’s significance in aligning educational outcomes with the demands of modern industries. He underscored the urgent need for skilled STEM professionals, noting that many businesses struggle to find adequately trained talent.
“This 5-year Strategic Plan marks a pivotal moment for CEMASTEA and Kenya’s education sector as a whole,” Machogu remarked. “It sets the stage for innovative approaches to STEM education, focusing on training, research, and fostering a culture of innovation.”
The plan outlines several key objectives:
- Enhanced Training and Capacity Building: CEMASTEA will intensify efforts to train STEM educators, equipping them with advanced pedagogical skills and modern teaching techniques. This initiative aims to empower teachers to effectively impart STEM concepts in schools across the country.
- Promotion of Gender Responsive Pedagogy: Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, the plan emphasizes training curriculum implementers on gender-responsive pedagogy. This approach seeks to eliminate gender disparities in STEM education and empower all students to pursue careers in these fields.
- Research and Innovation: CEMASTEA will prioritize research initiatives aimed at advancing STEM knowledge and fostering innovation. By encouraging collaborative research projects and providing resources for experimentation, the plan aims to cultivate a culture of scientific inquiry and problem-solving among students and educators.
- Partnerships and Stakeholder Engagement: The success of the Strategic Plan hinges on collaboration with stakeholders across academia, industry, and government. By fostering strong partnerships, CEMASTEA aims to leverage resources and expertise to enhance STEM education outcomes nationwide.
