The Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA) has announced plans to host its inaugural STEM Boot Camp at Kisii School from November 30 to December 4, 2026, in a renewed effort to promote science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education among young learners.
The five day programme, themed “Building Skills, Solutions and Possibilities Through STEM,” aims to equip learners with practical skills, nurture creativity and innovation, and inspire more students to pursue STEM-related careers.
During the programme, participants received hands-on training in creative coding, robotics, artificial intelligence, graphic design, drone technology, mathematics and science innovations.
They also developed essential skills, including critical thinking, problem solving, creativity and innovation.
At the closing ceremony, participants showcased projects and innovations they had developed during the camp, demonstrating the practical knowledge and technical skills acquired throughout the programme.
Speaking during the event, STEM Boot Camp Coordinator Mr Kizito Makoba said the initiative seeks to inspire more learners to pursue STEM-related courses at tertiary institutions while nurturing a generation of creative thinkers and innovative problem solvers.
Makoba said CEMASTEA plans to expand the programme by organising additional boot camps in different parts of the country to ensure learners from diverse regions benefit from the initiative.
“We will ensure our young learners, wherever they are, benefit from the boot camp,” he said.
However, he noted that limited resources, particularly human resources, remain a major obstacle to expanding the programme; he said the government continues to support the programmes, including through the deployment of student interns.
Makoba also disclosed that many parents have expressed interest in residential STEM boot camps, which could accommodate more participants. However, he noted that CEMASTEA does not currently offer residential training.
National Coordinator of the Kenya Science and Engineering Fair (KSEF) Tabitha Karioki who represented the Principal Secretary for Basic Education as the chief guest, challenged learners to embrace innovation and apply their knowledge in addressing challenges facing society.
Karioki noted that some of the participating learners also take part in the Kenya Science and Engineering Fair, Kenya’s premier national co-curricular competition, which provides a platform for learners to showcase original, project based scientific innovations and engineering designs.
She encouraged the learners to remain focused, creative and determined in their pursuit of excellence, urging them to embrace a positive mindset and continuously seek opportunities to improve themselves.
“Always think about changing something and what will make you better. If you are positive, focused and concentrate, you will create anything,” she said.
Karioki said the boot camp also demonstrates the growing collaboration between government and private institutions in providing learners with access to quality, world class STEM training experiences.
She urged participants to share the knowledge and skills acquired during the programme with their peers in their respective schools to encourage wider participation in STEM activities and foster a culture of innovation.
CEMASTEA Deputy Coordinator, STEM Innovations Martin Mungai encouraged parents to take advantage of the school holiday programme by enrolling their children, noting that the initiative provides an opportunity for learners to develop skills that could prepare them for future careers in technology and innovation.
He observed that the boot camps expose learners to practical experiences beyond the regular school curriculum, helping them discover and develop their talents in STEM disciplines.
