RE: Integrating Raspberry Pi into Kenya’s CBC: Enhancing Computer Science, AI, Chess, and Robotics
Fred Sagwe
Abstract
This paper explores the integration of Raspberry Pi into Kenya’s Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) to enhance digital literacy and promote STEM education, particularly in Computer Science, AI, Chess, and Robotics. As a cost-effective and versatile tool, Raspberry Pi enables hands-on learning in coding, robotics, AI, and data science while fostering problem-solving and innovation. Employing a mixed-methods approach, including surveys from 50 schools, 500 students, and 100 teachers, alongside performance assessments, the research demonstrated a 40% improvement in students' programming skills and increased teacher confidence in AI and data science. Raspberry Pi’s versatility facilitated hands-on exploration of AI through machine learning, robotics via sensor integration and ROS, and chess through engine development and robot construction. The study also highlighted the Raspberry Pi 5's potential in cybersecurity, industrial automation, and personal computing. Literature reviews emphasized its role in enhancing computational thinking and STEM education, supported by case studies demonstrating its impact on robotics, AI education, and remote learning. Challenges such as limited teacher training, infrastructure issues, and internet accessibility were identified, but Raspberry Pi-based learning proved 50% more cost-effective than traditional labs. Teacher professional development workshops focused on classroom integration and curriculum alignment, fostering collaborative learning environments. The device also supports interdisciplinary learning through creative coding, digital storytelling, and real-world sensor applications. Raspberry Pi promotes educational equity by bridging the digital divide, with initiatives such as solar-powered labs and offline learning resources for rural schools. Robotics clubs using Raspberry Pi have significantly improved students' problem-solving skills, with efforts by the Robotics Society of Kenya reaching over 3,000 learners. The study recommends expanding teacher training, establishing solar-powered labs, fostering public-private partnerships, and introducing AI, robotics and chess competitions. Integrating Raspberry Pi into CBC presents a transformative opportunity to equip Kenyan students with 21st-century digital skills, preparing them for the evolving digital economy.
Keywords: Digital literacy, Raspberry Pi, Competency-Based Curriculum, AI, Robotics
Fred Sagwe
Exciting News! 🚀
The Robotics Society of Kenya is grateful for the donation of a Raspberry Pi 500 all-in-one computer (Single-Board Computer) to accelerate the integration of Raspberry Pi in the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) and support the Computer Science for All Bill, 2025.
This milestone brings us closer to equipping learners with hands-on computing skills, fostering innovation, and ensuring digital inclusion for all. Together, we are shaping the future of STEM, AI, and robotics education in Kenya!
#RaspberryPi #STEMEducation #ComputerScienceForAll #Kenya #CBC #AI #Robotics
Fred Sagwe
Shaping Kenya’s Computer Science Future – Join the Conversation!
Kenya is at a pivotal moment in Computer Science (CS) education. With the Kenya Computer Science for All Bill, 2025, we aim to integrate CS into the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) from Grade 4 to university, ensuring our learners gain the critical thinking, problem-solving, and computational skills needed in the AI-driven future.
📌 Key Focus Areas:
🔹 Standardized CS curriculum (Grades 4 - University)
🔹 Teacher training & industry partnerships
🔹 Digital access & computational thinking for all📌 Why It Matters:
✅ Mathematics is no longer compulsory under CBC (Senior School), and students are selecting STEM pathways
✅ The Kenya Computer Science for All Bill, 2025 & Raspberry Pi in CBC (physical computing) shall empower young learners for the future workforce
✅ CS & Mathematics are deeply connected, shaping logical thinkers and problem solvers
✅ STEM pathways: Up to 60% of Grade 9 learners projected to pursue STEM by 2026
✅ AI, cybersecurity, software development, & data science are in high demand
✅ Global shift: Europe, Asia, Australia & North America have made CS compulsory
✅ Breaking barriers: CS fosters inclusion, innovation & economic growth
✅ Matters of national importance: Technology, education, and future of work readiness must be prioritized to keep Kenya competitive📅 Date: Wednesday, March 19, 2025
⏰ Time: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM (EAT)
📍 Platform: X (Twitter) Space
🎤 Organizers: Robotics Society of Kenya (RSK) & Computer Science Teachers Association of Kenya (CSTA Kenya)🚀 Be part of this game-changing discussion!
🔗 Join us & share your insights.
#ComputerScienceForAll #CBC #STEM #AI #Robotics #ComputationalThinking #DigitalInclusion #FutureOfWork
