The Mathematics Association of Kenya (MAK), domiciled at the University of Nairobi under the Chair of the Department of Mathematics, as IMU adhering organization coordinates IMU-related activities, including the nomination of ICMI representatives. Calls for nominations are circulated through MAK and the Association of Mathematics Educators in Kenya (AMEK) platforms, interested candidates submit CVs and a selection committee convened by the University of Nairobi reviews applications. The final recommendation is forwarded to ICMI for ratification.
Associations for Mathematics Education
At a regional level, Kenya is also involved in:
- AFRICMA (Africa ICMI Association): Established in 2023 with its secretariat at Kenyatta University, promotes mathematics education across Africa through research, conferences, and teacher capacity-building.
- Capacity and Network Project CANP 4 initiated by ICMI.
- SMASE-Africa (Strengthening of Mathematics and Science Education in Africa): Based in Nairobi under CEMASTEA , it focuses on networking, advocacy, and improved classroom practice.
Research Institutions in Mathematics Education
Kenya does not yet have a standalone institute dedicated exclusively to mathematics education, yet, some national institutions offer opportunities for research in Mathematics Education.
- The Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA) conducts classroom and STEM pedagogy research, supports in-service teacher development, and was established in 2004 (restructured as a state corporation in 2022).
- University of Nairobi – School of Mathematics : Offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs, with mathematics education research at the interface of Mathematics and Education.
- Strathmore University Institute of Mathematical Sciences (SIMS): Collaborates on research in mathematical sciences and mathematics education.
- The Centre of Science, Technology & Mathematics Education (COSTEM), Kibabii University: An emerging hub for STEM education research and innovation.
- Teacher Training Colleges and Universities: Institutions such as Kenyatta University and Moi University host active research in instructional strategies, pedagogy, and teacher development.
Journals for Mathematics Education Research
Kenya does not currently host a dedicated mathematics education journal. However, relevant research is published in:
- East African Journal of Education Studies (EAJES): Publishes broadly on education, including mathematics curriculum and pedagogy.
- International Academic Journal of Social Sciences and Education (IAJSSE): Occasionally features mathematics education studies.
Mathematics Teacher Education
- Pre-service Education: Delivered through universities and teacher training colleges, now aligned to the Competency-Based Education (CBE) framework.
- In-service / Continuous Professional Development: CEMASTEA leads national CPD programs, complemented by SMASE’s regional in-service training initiatives.
- Teaching Practicum: Universities have expanded practicum opportunities, including innovations such as Job Shadowing, pioneered at Kenyatta University and adopted by others.
National Syllabus and Standards
- Competency-Based Education (CBE): Implemented under the National Curriculum Policy (2019), CBC emphasizes skills, values, and competencies alongside knowledge.
- Curriculum Development: Led by the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD), which oversees syllabus design, review, and standard setting.
- Assessment Standards: CBC integrates formative and summative assessments, aligning with competency-based approaches.
- Teacher Standards: The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has established professional standards that apply across disciplines, including mathematics.