Utilize Mobile Laboratories for JSS In Remote Regions
The School Equipment Production Unit (SEPU) is urging Junior Secondary School (JSS) heads to invest in solar-powered mobile laboratories to tackle the equipment shortage in remote areas. Joel Mabongo, CEO of SEPU, announced the development of these mobile labs to cater to Junior Secondary Schools in rural regions. Speaking at the Kenya Primary School Heads Association conference in Mombasa, Mabongo advised over 10,000 primary school head teachers to consider this innovative solution.
SEPU, a State agency specializing in manufacturing laboratory equipment, emphasizes the importance of immediate action by JSS heads. Mabongo urged them not to wait for costly infrastructure projects, estimated at Sh3 million, and instead opt for affordable mobile laboratories that cater specifically to the needs of JSS students.
Presently, many junior secondary schools lack laboratories, compelling students to travel to nearby high schools for practical lessons. Mabongo highlighted the introduction of mobile laboratories equipped with essential science kits to facilitate practical lessons for JSS students. These mobile labs are complete with chemicals, gas cylinders, sinks with taps, connected pipes, and other necessary kits for a fully functional laboratory.
- KEPSHA Urges Prompt Disbursement of Funds for Primary Schools
- CS Machogu on Exam Malpractice Issues
- KNEC Chief Issues Caution Regarding Fake Exam Papers Circulating on Social Media
- Interviews For the Promotion Of 36,505 Teachers to Commence on December 4
Mabongo emphasized the need for comprehensive school heads, including those implementing the CBC 2:6:3 program, to align themselves with students’ requirements before progressing to senior secondary school. He reassured teachers hesitant about teaching the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) due to the absence of laboratories, stating that Sepu has a viable solution in place.
Furthermore, SEPU is prepared to convert existing classrooms into laboratories after establishing solar-powered mobile labs. These labs, designed for schools without electricity, are available for purchase at a cost-effective Sh220,000 each, providing a practical alternative to waiting for expensive, large-scale laboratories. SEPU is also willing to visit schools and convert idle classrooms into laboratories at a minimal cost.
Johnson Nzioka, Chairman of the Kenya Primary School Heads Association (KEPSHA), stressed the urgent need to address infrastructure deficiencies, particularly the absence of laboratories in JSS. Nzioka emphasized that exposing children to laboratory activities enhances their practical skills, aligning with the CBC objectives. He pointed out that teachers in primary and junior secondary schools have embraced innovative approaches, calling on the government to provide support in overcoming existing challenges related to CBC implementation.
In conclusion, SEPU’s initiative to introduce solar-powered mobile laboratories emerges as a practical and cost-effective solution to address the equipment shortage in remote areas. The appeal to JSS heads to take immediate action aligns with the broader goal of enhancing practical learning experiences for students, especially under the CBC framework.
Utilize Mobile Laboratories for JSS In Remote Regions.