IBM technology training targets 3,700 teachers to boost sciences

An IBM-backed training will train more than 3,700 teachers from January in use of information technology to boost learners’ interest in sciences.

The programme known as design-based learning, aims to replace the reliance on text books with use of computers and practical in learning.

Under the programme, learners will be expected to generate practical solutions to everyday problems using science, technology, engineering and mathematical (Stem) models.

The Teachers Try Science (TTS) project in primary and secondary schools is being steered by the Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education in Africa in collaboration with tech company IBM.

IBM East Africa chief operating officer Nigel Noble said at the launch in Nairobi last week emphasis on Stem-related subjects would equip students skills relevant in the job market.

New world

Mr Noble said the project would enable learners make a connection between school, community, work and global enterprise as well as compete in the new world economy.

“The programme is part of our $60 million fund for Africa to leverage on technology in sectors such as education and provide tools and resources to spark students’ enthusiasm in the science subjects.

“We will be providing hardware and software tools to try and address the work needs and help them prepare for the workplace at an early age,” he said.

Project director Stephen Njoroge said: “We have developed a one-week training manual for teachers in leveraging technology during lessons and every county is required to identify between 50 and 100 sub-county trainers for science and art subjects, ICT champions and other stakeholders.”

“About 70 per cent of students who sit KCSE exams score Ds in sciences and we want to change that notion in learners as science is the solution for our everyday lives,” he said.