Public Junior Secondary Schools (JSS) in Mathioya constituency got a boost in science learning following the introduction of mobile laboratory units designed to support practical lessons under the Competency-Based Education (CBE).
Since introduction of CBE many JSS centres, most of which are domiciled within primary schools, have struggled to deliver quality science education due to the absence of fully equipped laboratories.
As a result, learners have often been forced to trek to neighbouring secondary schools for practical lessons, a situation that has disrupted learning schedules and limited hands-on exposure.
The newly introduced mobile laboratory units in the area, are offering a practical and immediate solution.
Unlike conventional laboratories that require permanent buildings, the units are portable, fully equipped science workstations that can be moved easily from one classroom to another within a school.
Each unit contains all the essential apparatus required for CBE-aligned practical lessons.
Speaking during the rollout of laboratories on Tuesday, Elijah Poshenei, chairperson of the School Equipment Production Unit, said a single mobile laboratory unit is sufficient to serve an entire school.
He explained that CBE places strong emphasis on practical learning making such innovations critical especially for schools that are yet to establish permanent laboratories.
“This unit can be used by one class in the morning, moved to another mid-morning and still serve a different group later in the day,” Poshenei said adding that “It is fully equipped and teachers require minimal preparation to conduct practical lessons.”
He added that the initiative is part of broader efforts within the education sector to ensure that lack of infrastructure does not compromise the quality of learning.
The project has been championed by Mathioya MP Edwin Mugo Gichuki, who said the decision to adopt mobile laboratory units was informed by cost and urgency.
According to the MP, setting up conventional laboratories would cost millions of shillings and take years to complete.
“Each unit costs about Sh250,000, which is far more affordable than constructing a full laboratory,” He said.
Mugo continued “Using the National Government–Constituency Development Fund, we have ensured that 20 selected primary schools in Mathioya each receive their own complete lab unit.”
Mugo described the move as a smart, cost-effective intervention that allows schools to conduct science practicals immediately without waiting for long-term infrastructure projects.
The initiative has also received support from Yusuf Ndumo, chairperson of the NG-CDF Board, who noted that many schools across the country still lack adequate learning facilities.
He said that since the fund’s establishment 20 years ago, more than 3,000 new schools have been set up, many of which require support to become fully functional.
“Even older schools still have gaps in infrastructure. NG-CDF has played a key role in constructing classrooms, dormitories, and laboratories and innovations like these mobile units help bridge remaining gaps,” Ndumo remarked.
With the rollout complete, 20 primary schools in Mathioya can now comfortably conduct CBE science practical teaching, bringing hands-on learning closer to learners and ensuring no child is left behind due to lack of facilities.
By Bernard Munyao
