Nairobi: Education stakeholders have been challenged to strengthen STEM education through effective training, knowledge sharing, collaboration, and accountability at the county level. Speaking during a three-day workshop for In-Service Education and Training (INSET) Centre Principals and county trainers at the Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA) in Karen, Nairobi, Chair of the Board of Governors, Dr. Pius Mutisya, highlighted the crucial role of teacher trainers and institutional leaders in supporting the government's efforts to enhance STEM education.
According to Kenya News Agency, the workshop, which gathered 118 INSET Centre Principals and 94 County Trainers' Representatives, focused on implementing teacher training programs at both county and institutional levels. The event, themed 'Enhancing management of CEMASTEA activities at the county level for effective implementation of STEM education', emphasized strengthening coordination, leadership, and delivery of STEM initiatives nationwide.
Dr. Mutisya noted the importance of sustained investment in science and technology education for achieving Kenya's long-term development goals. He stated that proper STEM training would enable the nation to build its capacity and reduce reliance on external expertise. The workshop served as a platform for reflection, collaboration, and strategic alignment, encouraging participants to actively engage and provide feedback to improve training program effectiveness.
Furthermore, Dr. Mutisya commended the participants' commitment, acknowledging their dedication to improving education quality despite busy schedules. He praised the county trainers and INSET Centre Principals for their accountability in managing training resources and emphasized the need for continued vigilance in transparency, compliance with procurement regulations, and adherence to audit recommendations.
Dr. Mutisya urged education leaders to enhance school-based professional development through collaborative approaches such as lesson study, underscoring the importance of continuous teacher learning in improving classroom practice. He recognized the significant contribution of county trainers and INSET Centre Principals in implementing CEMASTEA programs at the grassroots level.
Lastly, Dr. Mutisya encouraged participants to utilize the workshop to share experiences and develop practical strategies for strengthening STEM education delivery. The workshop aims to enhance the management of teacher professional development programs and contribute to improved teaching practices and learning outcomes in STEM subjects across the country.