Girls have been encouraged to embrace both science and mathematics subjects as early as at the secondary school level of education, so to secure well-paying career opportunities in the future.
Scores of academicians have lamented that in respect to statistics in the national exams results, the Kenyan girl-child hardly excel in Science, Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects, unlike the boy-child.
The educationists were speaking when they graced a ceremony to mark this year’s international day of women and girls in science, themed “unpacking STEM careers: Her voice is science” that was held at Mulango girls high school in Kitui county.
Prof. Hellen Njeri Njenga who was the chief guest during the event organized by the Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA), challenged the girls to undertake and as well as develop an interest in the science and mathematics subjects in efforts to better their career and also secure huge job opportunities available in different economic sectors locally and abroad.
The scientist, Prof. Hellen who excelled in chemistry subjects appreciated women for the role they play in community development, underscoring that once the girls embrace science and mathematics subjects, they will as well apply the gained knowledge in the community development activities.
“Science is about solving problems and is applied in our day to day needs for discovery of a better life as well as in community development, while everything is mathematics in solving problems applied daily in human life” the Prof. Said.
She further observed the importance of science and mathematics subjects which are largely attributed to many discoveries taking place in Information Communication Technology (ICT) and in production of goods in developed countries.
The head of the directorate field coordination and co-curricular activities at the Ministry of Education Mr Nelson Sifuna while speaking during the ceremony, noted that both science and mathematics determine future careers of learners regardless of the level of education.
The director challenged the Kenyan girl-child to demystify the myth that STEM subjects are for boys only.
Mr. Sifuna reiterated that his Ministry of Education is very committed in developing the education system that identifies talents in different academic excellence and not only just in science and mathematics, but also in languages for talents in communication.
The coordinator of special programmes and students learning at CEMASTEA Mrs. Beatrice Macharia noted several activities aimed at improving competencies in STEM education.
“We have carried out mentorship and outreach sessions in selected schools across the country, as well as train teachers who teach STEM subjects among other science and mathematics activities across the country,” said Mrs. Macharia.
By Denson Mututo and Priscilla Wambua
