Education stakeholders gathered at Elegant Hotel in Bungoma to discuss the barriers hindering children’s access to education, with a special focus on adolescent girls. The meeting, organized by the Elimu Yetu Coalition, brought together representatives from civil society organizations, the Ministry of Education, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), and other key stakeholders.

A major point of discussion was the future of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education, with calls for increased investment and prioritization. Stakeholders emphasized the importance of STEM in driving innovation and economic development, while civil society organizations (CSOs) pushed for Mathematics to remain a compulsory subject, arguing that a strong foundation in the subject is essential for all learners.

According to the National Coordinator of Elimu Yetu Coalition, the coalition is committed to ensuring that all children in Kenya receive an education that prepares them for the future.

“STEM subjects are critical in today’s world, and we need to ensure that learners have access to quality education in these fields,” the coordinator stated.

While STEM was acknowledged as a priority, stakeholders also stressed the need for a balanced approach that values social sciences, arts, and technical skills.

“What matters is not just making subjects available but ensuring they are taught at the highest quality possible,” the coordinator added.

A key debate that emerged during the meeting was the role of Mathematics in the curriculum. CSOs strongly advocated for Mathematics to remain a compulsory subject, arguing that it is essential for problem-solving, logical reasoning, and career opportunities in STEM fields.

“Mathematics is a foundational subject that prepares learners for diverse career paths, not just in STEM but in finance, business, and even social sciences,” said Elimu Yetu Coalition National Coordinator.

While some argued that compulsory Mathematics could be a challenge for some learners, the general consensus was that improving the quality of Mathematics instruction and offering additional support to struggling students would be a better approach than making the subject optional.

The meeting also addressed several challenges affecting girls’ education in Bungoma, including early pregnancies, early marriages, and school dropouts. Participants emphasized the importance of parental engagement in addressing these issues.

“Awareness-raising among parents is critical. If communities are not aware, then we will be fighting a losing battle,” said Reverend Johnstone Nyongasa, a member of the county education network.

Efforts by both the national and county governments to address these challenges were acknowledged, including infrastructure development, teacher training programs, and scholarship opportunities. However, gaps remain, especially in Vocational Training Institutes (VTIs) that cater to young mothers. Many of these institutions lack childcare facilities, making it difficult for young mothers to continue their studies.

As discussions continued, stakeholders emphasized the need for strong policy implementation at the county level. Several policies are under development, and participants called for support to ensure they are passed and enacted by the county assembly.

Additionally, the role of teachers in education was highlighted, as they are often the first to notice when a child faces challenges. Gender-balanced staffing in schools was also discussed as a way to provide appropriate guidance for learners.

Moving forward, the Elimu Yetu Coalition and other education advocates plan to push for more infrastructural support, increased parental engagement, and enhanced policy implementation to address the barriers hindering children’s education in Bungoma County. The discussion on STEM prioritization and the compulsory status of Mathematics in the curriculum remains a key issue that will shape future education policies.

Caption : Joseph Wasike, Elimu yetu National Coordinator, Eng. Agnes Wachiye CEC Education and Vocational training, Stakeholders from different departments meet at Elegant Hotel for Elimu Yetu Coalition Dialogue.

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