The University of Nairobi, through the Centre for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (CEMA), has embarked on a programme to help young, potential scientists still in school to develop their skills.
According to UoN don, Dr Loice Ombajo, this will be done through the establishment of data clubs in the rural schools to help budding scientists and researchers in their quest to become professionals.
Dr Ombajo, who is the CEMA director, was speaking at Ndere mixed secondary school in North Gem location, Siaya County, where she presided over the official launch of the school’s Data club.
She said that their target was to help learners to become lifelong researchers who will be inquisitive and ready to look for data that will support solutions to the problems bedevilling the community.
“The programme also aligns with the current education system and sets up students to be able to compete in a country that is very competitive,” said the university don.
Dr Ombajo said that they had managed to renovate and equip a computer lab for the school and urged other stakeholders to support the initiative.
“Our desire at CEMA is to continue to grow young people and equip them with skills and resources so that they can become competitive in the world,” she added.
The school principal, Benard Otieno, hailed the Centre for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis for choosing his institution to pilot the project, which, he added, had helped expand the students’ minds and perception of science.
“The world has gone information technology. It applies everywhere and as we are training these young minds, it is not just about passing examinations,” said the principal.
The chairman of the school Board of Management, Japheth Ochieng, assured that they were committed to making the programme a success and called on both the government and other donors to support the programme.
By Philip Onyango
