Revolutionizing Junior Secondary Education in Kenya Through Technology

In Kenya’s educational landscape, many schools such as Makini are embracing technology to transform the learning experience for their students. To support digital integration in education, a significant investment of Sh.150 million has been allocated for infrastructure upgrades across all Makini Schools in Kenya. This will enable the schools to expand Wi-Fi accessibility both inside and outside classrooms, install state-of-the-art projectors, and sound bars, ensuring a seamless transition to online lessons when needed. Additionally, Makini teachers will be equipped with the latest devices and training to enhance their teaching capabilities. As the digital age continues to reshape every single aspect of society, educators are harnessing the power of technology to enhance teaching and learning in unprecedented ways.

The implementation of technology in the classroom is more than just a trend. It is a strategic investment in the future of education. With the support of government initiatives and private partnerships, schools are equipping classrooms with computers, tablets, interactive whiteboards and high-speed internet access. This infrastructure is the foundation for an interactive, dynamic and engaging learning environment where students can explore, collaborate and innovate like never before.

What are the key benefits of integrating technology in junior secondary education?

1. A personalized learning experience

One of the most significant benefits of technology in education is its ability to offer students a more personalized learning experience. Teachers can tailor their instructions to meet the diverse needs and learning styles of individual students. Education software and learning platforms can enhance learning and further cement concepts into the children’s minds.

2. Extra help is available when needed

Technology also provides extra practice for learners who might be struggling. Through enrichment activities, teachers can diversify their lessons and make sure that no child is left behind.

3. Collaboration and communication are enhanced

Technology in the classrooms of junior primary schools also fosters collaboration and communication between students, both inside and outside the class. Google Classroom and Microsoft Teams for example, enable students to work together on projects. They can share ideas and get feedback in real-time. Collaborative learning approaches enhance academic outcomes and promote teamwork, problem solving and communication skills.

4.Access to resources and opportunities

Students at schools like Makini, have access to online libraries, educational websites and multimedia resources. They can explore a wealth of information and even go on virtual field trips. With interactive simulations and educational games, learning comes alive in ways that traditional textbooks could never capture.

What challenges do Kenyan schools face in adopting educational technology?

While Makini School is fortunate to be able to adopt blended learning through technology, not all schools in Kenya have the means. Lack of resources and investment is often the biggest hurdle faced by schools across the country. Other factors include inadequate infrastructure, the lack of affordable and adequate internet bandwidth, a lack of e-learning policies as well as the limited technical skills of staff. Having said that, many schools in Kenya (with the help of government initiatives) have adopted educational technology and continue to strive for this enhanced learning and experience in their classrooms.

How is Makini School implementing technology into its curriculum?

Makini School is rolling out AdvLearn, an innovative digital learning tool that uses adaptive learning technology to enhance learning outcomes. ADvLearn offers a personalized approach to learning by empowering teachers to identify and address knowledge gaps in key subjects. It elevates students’ success and academic excellence through the use of AI-generated data insights. This ground-breaking innovation is set to be fully operational by May 2024 in all Makini Schools.

ADvLearn creates a secure online environment that complements traditional classroom learning by offering personalized assignments to learners, enabling real-time progress monitoring by teachers. The platform also equips teachers with precise insights into each student's strengths and weaknesses. This gives teachers the ability to tailor their teaching to suit the needs of learners, addressing specific learning gaps. As a result, it fosters a more effective educational experience.

Data analysis conducted by ADvTECH reveals that students who regularly engage with the platform experience marked improvements in their subject grades, with progress rates between 15% and 29%. This indicates a potential effectiveness in embracing technology in education.

Makini School focuses on quality education while moving with global trends. E-learning has been incorporated into a learning model being referred to as Blended Learning or Hybrid Learning. Hybrid Learning combines traditional classroom work with online courses. Technology is integrated to boost learning and ensure that students are skilled for the future.

Blended Learning is a model that combines face-to-face and online instruction in ways that customize the learning experience for each student while making content accessible. Today’s students need to create, collaborate and share digital content responsibly. At Makini, we understand just how important online literacy skills are and that students need to know how to use it all responsibly. By incorporating technology into classrooms, Makini offers its students a well-rounded education that will set them apart in the future.

As more and more of our lives become dependent on technology, it is of the utmost importance for students to experience technology in their daily lives. By integrating technology into the curriculum at Makini, we are not only preparing students for the digital age but also expanding their horizons and fostering a love for lifelong learning. For more information about Makini School, please visit our website https://www.makinischool.ac.ke/

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Building Executive Function Skills in Primary School Children

February 10, 2026

Executive function skills are the mental processes that help children plan, focus, remember instructions and manage their behaviour. These skills act as the brain’s “control system,” guiding how children think, learn and interact with others. In primary school, strong executive function supports academic success as well as emotional maturity, independence and positive social behaviour. For parents and educators alike, understanding how these skills develop is critical to supporting child brain development in meaningful, practical ways. What Are Executive Function Skills? Executive function skills are commonly grouped into three core areas: 1. Working memory: This is the ability to hold and use information. For example, remembering multi-step instructions. 2. Cognitive flexibility. This is the ability to adapt, shift thinking and try new approaches. 3. Inhibitory control: This is the ability to pause, resist impulses and regulate behaviour. When a child remembers their homework, switches from maths to reading and waits their turn to speak, they are using executive functioning in kids in everyday situations. These skills develop gradually and are shaped by experience, guidance and environment. This is especially true during early and primary years. Read more on why early development is important. Why Executive Function Skills Matter in Primary School In school settings, executive skills directly affect learning as well as behaviour. · Working memory in children helps them to follow lessons · Self-regulation skills for students assists in managing emotions · Improving attention in school children is essential during tasks · Impulse control in classrooms helps to reduce disruptions Learners with strong executive functioning are better able to complete tasks, organise their work, manage frustration and collaborate with their peers. These skills also support independence and help children take responsibility for routines, deadlines and their personal behaviour. Key Challenges Children Might Face Some common signs of underdeveloped executive skills include: · Forgetting instructions or losing items · Struggling to switch between different tasks · Acting impulsively or interrupting the class · Difficulty managing emotions · Poor time awareness These challenges don’t mean that a child is lazy or incapable. They often reflect developing brain systems that simply need a little guidance and practice. How Parents Can Support Executive Function at Home Parents play a powerful role in shaping executive function. Simple daily strategies can be incorporated into their day to strengthen these skills naturally. Some helpful approaches include: 1. Create Structured Routines Consistent daily routines help children predict what comes next, strengthening organisation as well as emotional regulation. 2. Use Visual Schedules Charts or picture schedules support working memory in children by making expectations visible. 3. Play Memory and Focus Games Try matching card games, Simon Says, puzzles and sequencing games. These support attention, recall and flexible thinking. 4. Encourage Problem-Solving Let children help with cooking steps, packing school bags and planning simple outings. This builds independence and cognitive flexibility in primary education. When there is strong parental engagement, there is a direct impact on executive growth. Discover more on the impact of parental involvement . Classroom Strategies for Teachers Teachers are ideally positioned to reinforce executive skills on a daily basis. Some effective classroom strategies include: 1. Task chunking - Break assignments into smaller steps to reduce cognitive overload. 2. Use of timers and checklists – These are known to improve time awareness and self-regulation skills for students. 3. Positive Reinforcement - Praise effort, strategy and reflection, not just the outcomes. 4. Mindfulness and calm-down techniques - Simple breathing, quiet corners or reflection time can help strengthen emotional control and attention. These strategies are especially valuable in supporting impulse control in classrooms and improving overall learning flow. When to Seek Extra Help If challenges persist despite consistent support, children may benefit from professional assessment. Some signs for parents and educators to watch for include: · Chronic forgetfulness · Extreme impulsivity · Emotional dysregulation · Difficulty following basic routines Educational psychologists or SEN specialists can help identify neurodivergent patterns (such as ADHD) and guide tailored interventions. Early support ensures children build confidence rather than frustration. Encouraging Growth Through Play and Daily Practice Play is one of the most powerful tools for executive development. Activities that build executive function include: · Storytelling and role-play · Group games - Consider turn-taking or rule-based games · Pretend shops or restaurants · Reflection discussions about feelings or decisions These experiences strengthen executive functioning in kids in a natural and pressure-free way. Schools that prioritise early holistic learning , such as in strong preschool systems, give children a strong base for future academic success. Conclusion: Building Brains for Life Executive function skills are not fixed traits. They are trainable abilities that grow through consistent support, practice and patience. From working memory to impulse control, these skills shape how children learn, behave and relate to others. At Makini School we aim to create a supportive environment where our educators can nurture strong thinkers, confident learners and emotionally resilient students, building not just academic success, but lifelong capability. FAQs 1. What are the three main executive function skills in children? Working memory, cognitive flexibility and inhibitory control. 2. How can I tell if my child has weak executive functioning? Frequent forgetfulness, impulsivity, emotional difficulty and poor organisation are common signs. 3. What are fun activities to boost executive function in young children? Memory games, storytelling, puzzles, role-play and routine-based tasks. 4. How do executive function skills affect learning in school? They support focus, task completion, emotional control and classroom behaviour. 5. Can executive function skills be improved over time? Yes. With regular practice and supportive environments, executive skills develop steadily throughout childhood.