Closing the laboratory gap at national scale
Governments across Africa have expanded access to secondary education rapidly, through policies such as free day secondary education and free senior high school. Enrolment has grown much faster than laboratories, equipment and science teachers.
The scale of the problem
In many countries, a large share of public secondary schools lack a fully equipped science laboratory. Where labs exist, consumables run out and equipment is shared among very large classes. Learners reach national practical examinations with little hands-on experience.
Why traditional solutions are slow
Building and equipping laboratories requires capital, construction capacity, regular consumables and trained technicians. At national scale, full coverage can take many years.
The role of virtual labs
Virtual labs can reach every school with computers and connectivity in months, not years. They:
- give every learner hands-on practice in physics, chemistry and technology;
- reduce the cost and risk of consumables and hazardous chemicals;
- standardise the quality of practical learning across regions;
- prepare learners to use real equipment well when it is available.
A blended national model
- Virtual labs for all public secondary schools with computer access.
- Core physical apparatus focused on national exam practicals.
- Regional centres of excellence, such as county or district STEM centres, for advanced hands-on work.
Building on existing investments
Many ministries have already invested in school computer labs and connectivity programmes. Virtual labs make those investments work harder for science education.
Contact us to discuss a pilot with your ministry, county or district.