An innovative astronomy education initiative is bringing practical science learning closer to primary school learners in Kisumu County through the provision of astronomy kits and the establishment of school-based astronomy clubs. The initiative, titled “Inspiring STEM Engagement through the Support of Astronomy Programs in Primary Schools in Kisumu County in Kenya,” is supported by the IAU OAD and is being implemented during the 2026 project period.

As part of the programme, participating schools are receiving astronomy learning resources, including binoculars, Earth models, astronomy charts, solar observation materials, club tags and assorted stationery. The resources are designed to help learners move beyond theoretical classroom learning and engage directly with astronomy through observation, modelling, drawing, experimentation and scientific record keeping. The schools benefiting from the initiative include Kibos, Angira, Alango, Ayaro, Okok, Kiaja, Kindu, Nyamonge, Kunya, Kadiju, Shaurimoyo, Kaloleni Muslim, Kibuye Mixed, Alara, Obwolo, St. Francis Nyamonge, and Tido Comprehensive Schools. The programme is aligned with the approved project target of supporting 20 schools.

The astronomy kits are expected to transform the way learners interact with science. Binoculars will provide opportunities for guided observation of the Moon and other suitable celestial objects, while Earth models and astronomy charts will help learners understand concepts such as the Earth-Sun relationship, day and night, the Solar System, planets, Moon phases and constellations. Learners will also use stationery to prepare astronomical drawings, maps, posters and observation records.

A major component of the initiative is the formation of astronomy clubs within the participating schools. Each club is designed to bring together approximately 40 learners under the guidance of a trained teacher, providing a platform for practical and collaborative learning outside the conventional classroom. Through the clubs, learners will participate in activities including Moon-phase observation and journaling, constellation identification, night-sky mapping, Solar System modelling, astronomy chart preparation, basic experiments and indigenous astronomy storytelling. These activities are designed to nurture curiosity, creativity, teamwork and scientific inquiry while strengthening learners’ interest in STEM. The provision of club tags and stationery will further strengthen learner participation and club identity. Club tags provide learners with a sense of belonging, while logbooks and other stationery enable them to document observations, prepare charts and undertake group projects. Teachers remain central to the success and sustainability of the programme. They will guide learners in the safe and effective use of astronomy equipment, organize regular club activities, maintain records and promote inclusive participation of both boys and girls. Follow-up teacher training will focus on advanced astronomy activities, gender-responsive pedagogy and strategies for sustaining astronomy clubs.

The initiative is expected to contribute significantly to practical STEM education in Kisumu County by giving learners opportunities to observe the sky, use scientific equipment, construct models, record observations and work collaboratively. It is also intended to establish a foundation for continued astronomy activities in schools beyond the project implementation period. The programme represents an important step towards bringing astronomy closer to learners and using astronomy as a gateway to wider STEM engagement. Continued teacher support, proper management of the equipment, regular club activities and systematic monitoring of learner participation will be important in ensuring the long-term impact of the initiative.

Project Coordinators: Ms. Fiona Adhiambo, Dr. Bernand Rapamdo and Prof. Boniface Ndinya
Institution: Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST)