Teaching Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects has long posed challenges for educators and students alike, often making these disciplines seem complex and inaccessible. To address this, the Aga Khan University’s Institute for Educational Development, East Africa (IED, EA), through its Centre for Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning (CELL), hosted a dynamic two day workshop aimed at demystifying STEM education for over 55 educators from pre-primary, primary, and secondary schools, both public and private.
The workshop focused on two core objectives: building foundational digital competencies through Physics Education Technology (PhET), and equipping educators with advanced strategies for effective digital integration in classrooms.
The event was made possible through a partnership with Diamond Trust Bank (DTB). Their generous sponsorship enabled 20 teachers from public schools to participate. In her remarks, Professor Jane Rarieya, Dean at IED EA acknowledged DTB’s support, highlighting that their contribution made it possible for a wide range of educators to participate and benefit from this vital training.
Throughout the sessions, educators were equipped with practical classroom techniques rooted in STEM principles, including Inquiry-Based, Problem-Based, and Project-Based Learning methodologies. Participants actively engaged in tackling real-world STEM teaching challenges through interactive discussions and lively polls.
A major highlight of the workshop was the hands-on introduction to PhET Interactive Simulations a powerful digital tool that brings abstract STEM concepts to life. Teachers explored simulations across various subjects, gaining first-hand experience of how technology can revolutionize learning and make it more engaging and meaningful for students.
Dr Ester Kibga, a faculty member at IED,EA and a facilitator of the training, noted the overwhelming positive response from educators and STEM professionals across different levels and institutions, signaling a growing recognition of the importance of strong STEM education.
"STEM subjects are not taught like other school subjects,” she said. “While we teach Science, Chemistry, Physics, History, Biology, and Mathematics separately, through this training, we aim for teachers to see the critical importance of effectively teaching these subjects, as they are fundamental in today’s era of technological advancement."
At the end of the workshop, educators collaborated to design subject-specific lesson plans incorporating the interactive strategies learned throughout the workshop. These plans were then presented and reviewed through peer feedback, fostering the exchange of ideas and strengthening collaboration among participants.
Amelia Kiyanga from DTB Bank explained that the bank’s decision to sponsor the workshop stemmed from its commitment to supporting digital education initiatives. "Through this training, we identified an opportunity to educate teachers not only about STEM but also about our digital services offering loans without the need for paperwork and helping teachers open children's savings accounts to promote long-term financial planning," she said.
CELL continues to encourage educators to stay tuned for future training opportunities, as the Centre remains committed to building the professional capacities of educators in critical areas of education. The ultimate goal is not only to enhance teaching competencies but also to ensure that educators are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in the 21st-century educational landscape.
