The Education Department at the National Museums of Kenya (NMK) plays a vital role in interpreting the museum’s collections, research, and exhibitions for the public. The department particularly focuses on engaging school children, students, and lifelong learners, ensuring that visitors gain a deeper understanding of Kenya’s cultural and natural heritage.
To promote understanding and sustainable use of natural and cultural heritage by enhancing public access to museum collections, research, and exhibitions.
To achieve this, the department develops innovative, hands-on educational programs that provide experiential learning opportunities both inside and outside the museum. These programs align with the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) and integrate 21st-century learning approaches within STEAM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics).
NMK has evolved its education programming from traditional guided tours, lectures, and gallery talks to a more interactive, inquiry-based learning approach.
In 1997, the museum introduced the Interactive Public Programmes Project, emphasizing hands-on engagement and self-discovery. This approach allows learners to interact with museum specimens, facilitators, and fellow learners through structured Discovery Studios featuring:
These programs enhance student curiosity, critical thinking, and engagement with Kenya’s rich heritage.
NMK integrates STEAM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) into its education programs through:
These programs encourage exploration, creativity, and innovation while fostering a lifelong passion for science, culture, and heritage.
Get a behind-the-scenes experience and see what happens inside the museum’s research labs. Engage with scientists and researchers as they:
This program inspires young learners to pursue careers in research and conservation. It is available for:
Get real-world exposure at NMK! The Job Shadowing Program allows students to:
This program is suitable for secondary school students pursuing:
Bringing the Museum to You!
Not everyone can visit the museum, so NMK’s Education Department takes learning to schools and communities through outreach programs.
The National Museums of Kenya (NMK), established under the Museums and Heritage Act (2006), is a multi-disciplinary institution dedicated to collecting, preserving, researching, and presenting Kenya’s cultural and natural heritage.
The National Museums of Kenya (NMK), established under the Museums and Heritage Act (2006), is a multi-disciplinary institution dedicated to collecting, preserving, researching, and presenting Kenya’s cultural and natural heritage.
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