CEMA-UoN boosts Data Literacy through Community Outreach
Students at Ndere Mixed Secondary School are now equipped with the tools to become future innovators. This was unveiled during the official launch of a Data Lab, held on Friday, September 26th, 2025, in Ndere Mixed Secondary School, Siaya County, marking a significant step in strengthening computer and data science skills in the region.
In a significant stride toward empowering the next generation with essential 21st-century skills, the Center for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (CEMA), University of Nairobi (UoN) has partnered with Ndere Mixed Secondary School to launch a Data Club. The initiative, unveiled during a special ceremony, aims to instill a culture of data literacy and analytics among students from a young age, positioning them for success in an increasingly data-driven world.
The launch, held at Ndere Mixed Secondary School, was attended by key stakeholders led by a delegation from CEMA-UoN, Ndere School Principal Mr. Bernard Otieno, Board Chairperson Japheth Ochieng, Parent Representative Collins Omondi. The collaborative effort will provide students with the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to collect, analyze, and interpret data, opening doors to careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
CEMA Africa's Commitment to Capacity Building, the Co-Director, Dr. Loice Ombajo highlighted the organization's dedication to capacity strengthening and knowledge transfer across the continent. "Our mission at CEMA is to improve Africa's health through data. This partnership with Ndere Mixed Secondary School is a perfect example of our commitment to building a pipeline of future data scientists and analysts," Dr. Ombajo stated. "By working with students at the secondary levels, we're not only enhancing their academic skills but also inspiring them to use data for societal good." The Data Club will benefit from CEMA's expertise in epidemiological modeling and data science, providing students with access to specialized resources and mentorship. This partnership aligns with CEMA's broader goal of leveraging advanced analytics to drive impactful health solutions and address critical challenges across Africa.
Fostering a Data-Driven Mindset, Mr. Bernard Otieno, the school principal, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, noting its potential to transform the educational landscape at Ndere Mixed Secondary School. "We are thrilled to be the first school to partner with CEMA Africa on this groundbreaking initiative," he said. "The DataClub is more than just a program; it's a testament to our commitment to preparing our students for the future. Data literacy isn't a niche skill anymore; it's a fundamental requirement for informed decision-making and problem-solving." The DataClub will integrate practical, hands-on projects into its curriculum, allowing students to apply data analysis to real-world challenges, such as tracking local health trends or analyzing environmental data. This project-based approach is designed to make learning both engaging and relevant.
Community Support and Vision for the Future, the initiative has garnered strong support from the community, with Parent Representative Collins Omondi emphasizing the positive impact on students' futures. "As parents, we are always looking for opportunities that give our children a competitive edge," Omondi said. "The DataClub will equip them with a unique skill set that will serve them well, whether they pursue careers in medicine, business, or technology."
Board Chairperson Japheth Ochieng echoed this sentiment, praising the visionary collaboration. "This partnership represents a bold step forward for Ndere School," Ochieng noted. "We believe that by fostering a culture of curiosity and data-driven thinking, we are empowering our students to become the innovators and leaders of tomorrow." The success of the DataClub at Ndere School is expected to serve as a model for similar programs in other institutions, with the long-term vision of creating a network of data-literate young people across Kenya and beyond.
