Simple Astronomy Teaching Using Local Context And Hands-On Methods In Tanzanian Schools.
TalkDuring Astronomy Education in Schools in Practice (Primary Schools)
7th Shaw-IAU Workshop
Rashidi Mohamedi Mkwinda Mr. (Mount Meru Astronomical Observatory and Nshupu Secondary School)
The talk will share how we teach astronomy in Tanzanian schools using simple and fun methods. At Mount Meru Astronomical Observatory, we support students with hands-on activities using everyday materials. We use local stories, sky observations, star maps, and simple models to explain stars, planets, and moons. For example, students build solar system models with sticks and paper or observe constellations in the night sky. These activities follow the Tanzanian curriculum and help students understand big ideas in a familiar way. Teachers are also trained to use these methods. The presentation will show classroom examples and how we connect science with local culture to make learning meaningful.
About Rashidi Mohamedi Mkwinda Mr.
Rashidi M. Mkwinda is a teacher at Nshupu Secondary School in Tanzania and currently serves as the Chairperson Ambassador at the Mount Meru Astronomical Observatory. He also guides astronomy clubs across Meru District, encouraging students to explore space science through hands-on and local sky-based activities. In 2025, Mkwinda attended the African Astronomical Society (AfAS) Conference, where he engaged with leading astronomers and educators from across the continent. Through classroom teaching and outreach, he works to make astronomy engaging and accessible for young learners in Tanzania.
