Why Scientists Want Every Student in Kajiado to Study Physics.
Students in Kajiado County have been encouraged to embrace Physics and other Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects to prepare for careers in science, innovation, research, and industrial development.
The call was made during a physics outreach programme held at Oloolaiser High School and organized by the African School of Fundamental Physics and Applications (ASP) in partnership with the Centre for Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA). The initiative brought together Grade 10 learners, teachers, and scientists from Kenya and other countries to promote practical learning and strengthen interest in Physics through hands-on demonstrations and scientific engagement.
As part of the programme, learners participated in a virtual interaction with researchers at the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN), where they received insights into ongoing scientific research, particle physics, and the practical applications of Physics in modern science and technology.
Speaking during the event, CEMASTEA Deputy Dean of Physics Professor Njeri Mbugua said the outreach programme is intended to shift learners from rigid, assessment-driven memorization toward competency-based exploration of Physics concepts through practical experimentation and inquiry-based learning.
Professor Mbugua noted that Physics remains a critical discipline in advancing industrialization, technological innovation, engineering, and scientific research. She added that the African School of Fundamental Physics and Applications is committed to nurturing interest in Physics among young learners across the African continent through continuous outreach and educational programmes.
She further revealed that ASP conducted a five-day teacher training workshop at CEMASTEA focusing on competency-based education, low-cost science experiments, concept mastery, and practical teaching approaches aimed at strengthening the delivery of STEM subjects in schools.
According to Professor Mbugua, the training was designed to enhance teachers’ capacity to implement competency-based teaching methodologies while improving learners’ understanding of scientific concepts through practical classroom experiences.
Teachers who participated in the workshop described the training as beneficial in improving practical teaching skills and expanding their knowledge in emerging scientific fields, including astrophysics, astronomy, radiation, and the polarization of light.
Physics and Mathematics teacher Vincent Birisi of Oloolaiser High School said the workshop equipped educators with practical instructional approaches that they will integrate into classroom teaching to improve learners’ understanding of Physics.
Jemimah Ng’ang’a of Enoomatasiani Girls High School stated that the training strengthened teachers’ capacity to deliver newly introduced curriculum areas, including space science and astronomy, through practical and competency-based approaches.
Dr. Christine Darve, a scientist at the European Spallation Source in Sweden, said the African School of Fundamental Physics and Applications has been conducting Physics outreach programmes across Africa since 2010. She noted that Kenya is hosting the ninth biennial ASP programme this year at the Centre for Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education in Africa.
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Dr. Darve encouraged female learners to pursue careers in science, emphasizing that girls possess the same ability as boys to excel in scientific disciplines and contribute to research, innovation, and technological advancement.
Students who participated in the outreach programme said the interaction with scientists, practical demonstrations, and exposure to international scientific research expanded their understanding of Physics and increased their interest in pursuing careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
Why Scientists Want Every Student in Kajiado to Study Physics.
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