CEMASTEA champions Physics education to accelerate scientific innovation

Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA), Gladys Masai, has urged stakeholders to invest more in research and teacher training to inspire more young people to pursue Physics and other Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) related subjects.

Ms. Masai said strengthening research and building the capacity of teachers are essential to nurturing the next generation of innovators, as it will ensure the country’s long-term scientific and technological growth.

The CEMASTEA acting CEO noted that investing in educators and research will further help equip learners with the knowledge and skills needed to drive national development.

“The future of scientific advancement depends not only on groundbreaking research but also on inspiring young people and equipping teachers with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to nurture the next generation of scientists, engineers and innovators,” she stressed.

Speaking during the official opening of the 9th Biennial African School of Fundamental Physics and Applications (ASP2026) at CEMASTEA in Karen, Nairobi, Ms. Masai underscored the critical role Physics plays in driving the country’s sustainable development.

She said Physics has helped many educators, researchers, students, innovators and leading scientists to understand the world better, as it has enabled them to develop sustainable solutions that address global challenges in energy, healthcare, climate change, communication technologies and industrial development.

She commended CEMASTEA for being in the forefront in enhancing quality training and learning in STEM.

“Our mandate at CEMASTEA is to enhance the quality of teaching and learning in mathematics, science and technology education. We are therefore honoured to host a programme that strengthens Physics education, scientific inquiry, innovation and collaboration across continents,” she said.

The week-long programme, running from July 6 to 11, brings together approximately 65

undergraduate and postgraduate Physics students from universities across Africa and beyond,

more than 50 lecturers, researchers and scientists from leading institutions worldwide, and 80

secondary school Physics teachers from Nairobi, Machakos, Kajiado and Kiambu counties.

Ms. Masai said the diversity of participants created a unique learning environment that would promote knowledge exchange, mentorship and collaboration among educators, researchers and students.

She said participants will have the privilege to attend lectures and practical sessions conducted by distinguished physicists and researchers from CEMASTEA, the University of Nairobi and other renowned international universities and research institutions.

According to the planners, the training sessions will be held at CEMASTEA, Karen, while other sessions will be taking place at the University of Nairobi’s Chiromo Campus.

The Acting CEO encouraged participants to take full advantage of the opportunity to learn from internationally renowned physicists, engage in meaningful discussions, build professional networks and foster collaborations that will continue even after the programme.

While the teachers programme will conclude on 11th July 2026, the university students

programme will continue into a second week, providing additional opportunities for advanced

learning, research engagement and interaction with international experts.

As part of the programme, a STEM Outreach Initiative will be undertaken from 13th to 16th July 2026 in Oloolaiser High School, Machakos Girls High School, Kiambu High School and Moi Girls School Nairobi.

The STEM outreach activities will be conducted by a team of up to 20 experts comprising CEMASTEA staff and Physics lecturers drawn from local and international universities participating in the African School of Physics.

Experts will engage learners through interactive demonstrations, hands-on activities and

discussions designed to enhance understanding and appreciation of Physics and STEM

disciplines.

The outreach programme will target Grade 10 learners pursuing the STEM pathway as well as Forms Three and Four students studying Physics, with each participating school expected to reach more than 200 learners.

According to the Acting CEO, the programme will provide a valuable opportunity to inspire young people to pursue studies and careers in Physics, engineering, technology and other STEM-related fields.

She added that the initiative also seeks to demonstrate the practical applications of Physics in addressing societal challenges and driving innovation.

Masai commended the University of Nairobi, the African School of Physics organisers, partner institutions and other stakeholders for their collaboration in making the programme possible, adding that their commitment to advancing Physics education and scientific excellence was commendable.

The African School of Physics 2026 is expected to strengthen partnerships among secondary schools, universities, research institutions and government agencies while reinforcing Kenya’s position as a regional hub for scientific collaboration, innovation and excellence in STEM education.

by Ian Chepkuto and Malinda Boniface