By Peace Muthoka.
Nairobi, Kenya – A bold initiative to transform science education for girls has been launched in Kenya, aiming to bridge the gender gap in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Echo Network Africa, in partnership with the Ministry of Education’s School Equipment Production Unit (SEPU), unveiled the country’s first mobile science laboratories on Wednesday. The innovative labs are designed to reach hard-to-access schools and ignite a passion for science among young girls.
“We want girls to begin seeing themselves as scientists,” said Dr. Jennifer Riria, CEO of Echo Network Africa. “For years, we have complained that girls are not taking up science subjects. It’s time we act and change that narrative.”
Dr. Riria stressed that empowering women is key to building a strong nation. “Without a mother, there is no generation. If you don’t empower a mother, you are disempowering everyone,” she said.
The mobile labs will allow schools in remote areas to share resources, giving students a hands-on experience in science. “It’s exciting to carry out research and find something at the end. These labs will help girls learn by doing,” Dr. Riria added.
Research by Echo Network Africa at Kangaru Girls’ High School has already shown promising results. “In three years, girls who previously scored D+ in science improved to A grades. Five of them even joined university to pursue science courses,” she revealed.
The organization hopes to inspire big dreams. “It’s time we send a Kenyan woman to the Moon,” Dr. Riria declared. “There have been women from other countries, but now it’s our turn.”
Sarah Muhoya, Chief of Party at Echo Network Africa, called for partnerships to sustain the program. “There are over 28,000 public primary schools, yet this first donation will only cover 15. This is just a drop in the ocean,” she said. “Government alone cannot do it. We all have a civic duty.”
Each mobile lab costs about KSh 200,000. “This is achievable,” Muhoya noted. “Corporates, individuals, and counties can step in. Let’s stop complaining and start creating solutions.”
The launch event brought together education officials, diplomats, and development partners. Organizers urged the media to amplify the message so that more girls can access STEM opportunities.
