The Gender Responsive Pedagogy and Digital Training component of the STEM project has really helped boost girls’ confidence in the Sciences. Speaking to the FAWE team, Mr. Odongo, a teacher at St. Catherine S.S had this to say:

“When dealing with digital teaching in a digital world, you need to do enough research to avoid being embarrassed by students who are exposed to computers. This gives them an advantage over us, their teachers.”

Mr. Odongo added that in the past he used to simply pick his books and rush to class and teach theory but after the introduction of the STEM project, his working timetable and attitude has changed. He now spends most of his time doing research.

“While using the old chalk and talk method of teaching, we focused on theory work and this left out much of the concepts while handling the different topics. The students would often get bored to the point of falling asleep in class.” He said.

He testifies that ever since he attended the digital pedagogy workshop organized by FAWE on how to shift teachers’ mindset to the modern ways of teaching, life and teaching has been a source of encouragement to him because he now sees a brighter future.

“I never knew a science teacher like me could ever use a computer. I thought it was only for top administrators and the chosen few.” said Mr. Odongo.

He believes that his students will not remain jobless after Senior 4 and 6 because of the newly acquired digital skills. These skills, he adds, will enable them innovate new ideas needed by the community.