Chemistry aid: How innovative solutions to chemistry educationare making a difference

Abstract

In Kenya, as in many developing countries, the government has placed great importance on science education. This importance on science education is difficult to realize, however, because of thechallenges facing science education, especially Chemistry education. These challenges include a lack of well equipped laboratories, the high cost of chemicals and equipment, a lack of mains electricity, lack of mains water, and students’ lack of laboratory gear such as goggles and lab coats. Many students continue to perform dismally in Chemistry as well as other sciences. In addressing this problem, the Scientific Advisory and Information Network (SAIN) Kenya and the Chemistry Video Consortium (CVC) UK have initiated a program, the Chemistry Aid initiative that has been working on devising and promoting the use of innovative solutions to problems facing Chemistry education in Kenya and other developing countries.