Virtual labs Enhance Science Education in Nairobi Schools

In a landmark event at Nairobi Primary and Junior Secondary School, students and teachers participated in the unveiling of Kenya’s first fully‑operational virtual STEM laboratory. The showcase, held on July 4, 2023, brought together educators, technology partners and the school community as learners accessed simulated experiments via tablets and Chromebooks supplied by Google, Intel and the alumni‑led ACAT initiative. The virtual lab is set to serve 2,275 learners and aims to bolster science competence by offering virtual physics, chemistry and biology modules aligned with the new curriculum.
The launch reflects broader efforts by Kenya’s Ministry of Education and the Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA) to bridge infrastructure gaps in schools lacking physical science labs. During the ceremony, CEMASTEA’s CEO noted how virtual labs allow students to engage in experimentation without the cost and safety risks of traditional equipment. Teachers were equipped with training and devices to guide students through the new digital environment. Another key factor is the national plan to establish thousands of labs—including virtual ones—to support implementation of the senior secondary STEM pathway under the Competency‑Based Curriculum.
The reaction from the school community has been overwhelmingly positive. Students expressed excitement at being able to see scientific processes in motion, while parents praised the school for embracing innovation. Teachers reported higher engagement and said that previously abstract concepts are now more tangible. However, experts cautioned that without parallel investment in underserved Nairobi schools—especially those in informal settlements or with limited connectivity—the risk is that technology‑rich schools will pull further ahead.
Looking forward, the initiative is expected to scale beyond its pilot phase. Education authorities plan to roll out virtual labs to more Nairobi schools as part of a national STEM expansion strategy. Training for teachers will continue, and efforts are underway to ensure schools have the necessary devices, data connectivity and support. If managed equitably, virtual labs could transform science education in Nairobi by delivering hands‑on learning to students regardless of physical infrastructure availability.