By Peace Muthoka.
Nairobi, Kenya – Echo Network Africa today held a media briefing to prepare for the official launch of Kenya’s first mobile science laboratories, an initiative aimed at encouraging girls to take up science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects. The launch is scheduled for Wednesday.
The program, implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Education’s School Equipment Production Unit (SEPU), will see mobile science labs delivered to schools in hard-to-reach areas, giving learners practical experience in science.
“We want girls to begin seeing themselves as scientists,” said Dr. Jennifer Riria, CEO of Echo Network Africa, during the briefing. “For years, we have complained that girls are not taking up science subjects. It’s time we act and change that narrative.”
Dr. Riria underscored the importance of women’s empowerment in national development. “Without a mother, there is no generation. If you don’t empower a mother, you are disempowering everyone,” she said.
The mobile labs will make it possible for clusters of schools to share science resources. According to Dr. Riria, this approach ensures even remote schools have access to hands-on learning. “It’s exciting to carry out research and find something at the end. These labs will help girls learn by doing,” she said.
Echo Network Africa has already seen positive results from similar efforts. At Kangaru Girls’ High School, a three-year pilot program raised science performance dramatically. “Girls who once scored D+ in science improved to A grades, and five went on to university to pursue science courses,” Dr. Riria revealed.
The initiative also has an ambitious vision. “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, appealed for partnerships to expand 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, making private support critical. “This is achievable,” Muhoya emphasized. “Corporates, individuals, and counties can step in. Let’s stop complaining and start creating solutions.”
The official launch will take place on Wednesday at 9 a.m., bringing together education officials, diplomats, development partners, and school representatives. Organizers urged the media to amplify the initiative and help inspire more girls to pursue STEM careers.
