Empowering Namibia's Youth: How Twin Kits are Revolutionizing STEM Education

By Namibia Flying Labs

Namibia Flying Labs’ focus on STEM education has the potential to bring about positive, long-lasting changes in Namibian society. By investing in the education and development of young people, we are not only shaping their individual futures but also contributing to the overall progress and well-being of the nation. Education is indeed a powerful catalyst for positive change and a better tomorrow.

With this in mind, during the first two terms of the Namibian education calendar, from March to July 2023, we conducted training to explore the Twin Kit. The training took place at the Mindsinaction STEM Center, and we held the sessions on selected weekday afternoons from 2pm to 4:30pm. We're grateful to the WeScience organization for sponsoring the kits through a World Science Movement Microgrant.  

The training was structured to have after-school activities, which included two short sessions of one and a half hours and four long sessions of two and a half hours. It also extended to one Government primary school and one Government high school as summer camp training. We selected students based on their age group, interest in science and technology, and aimed for a mix of students from diverse backgrounds and skill levels to foster a collaborative learning environment. 

In our training sessions, we prioritize effective communication and engagement. We prepare presentations to explain the topics in an organized and visually appealing manner.  Alongside presentations, we provide activity sheets that serve as reference materials for the participants, offering detailed information on the topics, explanations, diagrams, and additional resources for further exploration. We introduce topics in an engaging and interactive manner, often starting with attention-grabbing activities, demonstrations, or real-life examples. We encourage active participation and discussions.

Twin Kits offer various benefits to participants, encouraging children to ask questions, explore, and investigate the world around them. This curiosity-driven approach lays the foundation for a lifelong passion for learning. It also encourages hands-on STEM activities, which enhances problem-solving, critical thinking, and analytical skills. These skills are transferable to various aspects of life as well as future careers. Through experimentation, children learn to think creatively, embrace innovation, and understand that failure is a stepping stone to success. Some experiments within the kit encourage group work, promoting teamwork, communication, and collaboration – all essential skills in the modern world. The WeScience STEM Kit introduces children to fundamental STEM concepts, giving them a headstart in preparing for the challenges and opportunities of an increasingly technology-driven world.

While we encountered some challenges related to the adaptability of participants to the kit and technological aspects of the kit that happen to be outdated, our knowledgeable coaches managed to overcome them. Despite these challenges, the countless advantages of the Twin Kit remain clear.

In conclusion, investing in a child's education and future is an investment in the future of our entire society. The Twin Kit is more than just a product; it's a portal to a world of discovery, adventure, and endless possibilities. By kindling curiosity and cultivating an interest in STEM, we are providing children with the tools they need to flourish in the twenty-first century and beyond.