MMUST Researchers Secure €10,000 International Astronomical Union Grant To Boost Stem Learning Through Astronomy In Kisumu County
A team of researchers from Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) is set to advance Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education in primary schools in Kisumu County following the award of a €10,000 grant by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) through its Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD). The project (https://astro4dev.org/inspiring-stem-engagement-through-the-support-of-astronomy-programs-in-primary-school/) is led by Prof. Boniface Ndinya and brings together a multidisciplinary team of researchers from MMUST, including Dr. Bernard Rapando, Dr. Phillip Amuyunzu and Dr. Caroline Ayoti.
MMUST researchers, Dr. Phillip Amuyunzu and Prof. Boniface Ndinya.
The grant has been awarded to support a project titled ‘Inspiring STEM Engagement through the Support of Astronomy Programs in Primary Schools in Kisumu County, Kenya,’ which will be implemented from January to December 2026. The other members of the research team include Mr. Kennedy Owuoth from Kisumu National Polytechnic, alongside participating primary school teachers Mr. Michael Oketch, Ms. Jerither Ochwangi, Ms. Charity Mosota and Ms. Anyango Olwande Oluoko from selected schools in Kisumu County.
The initiative seeks to enhance science learning among learners from Grade One to Grade Six by leveraging astronomy as an innovative and engaging entry point into environmental science and integrated science.
MMUST researchers, Dr. Bernard Rapando and Dr. Caroline Ayoti.
The key activities under the project will include capacity-building workshops for twenty primary school teachers, the development and dissemination of astronomy-based learning resources in both English and Kiswahili, and the provision of astronomy education kits to participating schools. In addition, astronomy clubs will be established to engage more than 1,000 learners in hands-on and inquiry-based science activities such as sky observations, model construction and science storytelling.
The project will be implemented in full compliance with IAU-OAD grant guidelines which are strict financial accountability, monitoring and evaluation, and timely reporting. In line with IAU-OAD open-access principles, all educational materials and intellectual outputs generated through the project will be made accessible to the public.
We congratulate Prof. Boniface Ndinya and his team for securing this international funding that will directly benefit primary school learners in Kisumu County. The award reflects the researchers’ commitment to using innovative approaches to strengthen STEM education in early learning levels.
By Linet Owuor
