Practical science education in Uganda (and many other African countries) is almost universally inadequate. For many students, their first hands-on experience of science is during the O-Level practical exams. As a result they lose interest and score poorly on exams — chemistry, biology and physics have the lowest pass rates of all subjects in O-level exams. As a result, Africa loses many potential doctors, engineers and researchers.

TASTE aims to improve the situation by using a mobile laboratory to visit multiple schools. We will carry out exciting but relevant practicals, and ensure that every student gets a hands-on experience. Staff will work with local teachers so that they can take a leading role in the practical lessons. We will aim to visit each school several times a term so that practical science becomes a regular part of the school curriculum. As well as teaching academic principles and practical skills, the sessions will aim to encourage scientific thinking and reasoning.

We will begin operating the mobile lab in January 2013, but in the meantime there are many ways you can get involved. You can find out more in our brochure (PDF).