Deputy President Kithure Kindiki announced that the Kenyan government is set to construct at least 1,600 science laboratories across the nation. This initiative aims to ensure that every school, particularly those focusing on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), has access to essential facilities.
Speaking at the 120th anniversary celebrations of Jamhuri High School, Kindiki emphasized the importance of equipping students with the necessary tools to pursue STEM courses effectively. “You cannot do CBC (Competency Based Curriculum) when you have schools without labs,” he said, highlighting the need for practical learning experiences. Kindiki pointed out that for many students, the first encounter with laboratory equipment such as Bunsen burners and microscopes often occurs on examination day—a scenario that undermines the learning process. The new labs are expected to provide students with the hands-on experience they need to thrive in their scientific studies and prepare for careers in STEM fields.
In addition to the science labs, Kindiki revealed that the government has made significant strides in addressing the shortage of classrooms. With 15,000 classrooms already built, the government plans to construct 7,000 more within the next year, bringing the total number of classrooms built to 23,000. These classrooms are primarily intended for grade nine students and other levels, aiming to accommodate the growing population of learners and ensure adequate physical facilities for education.
Kindiki further noted that the government is committed to refining the CBC program, which aims to provide learners with a comprehensive education that prepares them for a complex and competitive world. As part of this effort, the Kenya Kwanza administration has employed a record 76,000 teachers within just two years, a feat that no previous administration has accomplished. The government’s five-year plan aims to hire a total of 116,000 teachers to address staffing gaps and improve the quality of education.
During the anniversary celebrations at Jamhuri High, Kindiki also launched a Sh120 million Endowment Fund, which will be used to support infrastructure development, provide student bursaries, and establish a Digital Hub, among other projects. This fund reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to enhancing educational standards and providing students with the resources they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving world.
With these initiatives, the Kenya Kwanza administration continues to prioritize education as a critical pillar of the country’s development.
