Check out the Pan-African science television program for children and try not to smile — we challenge you! The world needs more scientists, or at least individuals who value the scientific process. In an era where mask-wearing is questioned, climate change is denied, and the validity of evolution is debated, the scientific method has been under scrutiny. This highlights the importance of creating engaging science content for children.
Introducing N*Gen
Enter N*Gen. Pronounced “engine,” this program serves as a hub where science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) are delivered in 15-minute segments. The show is designed for kids aged 8 to 12 and explores science from an African perspective.
According to NPR, N*Gen covers topics like astronomy, chemistry, computer programming, robotics, video games, and foreign language education, all in bite-sized pieces that kids are eager to watch. With a focus on presenting science through an African lens, NPR notes that broadcasters are impressed by the show, as it stands out from other science programs aired on African television.
Local Relevance
David Mwangi, co-founder of Kidz Learn!, a children’s learning channel based in Kenya, shared that his network previously aired U.S. shows like SciGirls, which emphasizes STEM. “It’s a great program, but it doesn’t resonate locally,” he explained. For instance, SciGirls featured a segment on shoes designed for walking safely on icy streets in Minnesota — something Kenyan children can’t relate to. “I loved a recent episode we aired, titled ‘Bones,’ which included a segment on Turkana Boy, whose remains are at the Kenya National Museum,” he added.
Creators and Focus
N*Gen was created by six educators at Clarke Junior School in Kampala and is funded and produced by the East African nonprofit Peripheral Vision International. Joy Kiano, PhD, emphasized the necessity of focusing on science in the show, as it is often overlooked and regarded as a difficult subject. Kiano also highlighted the importance of showcasing African women in science, noting that while male teachers appear, most guest experts are female. Educators and producers from Uganda, Nigeria, and Kenya collaborate on episode ideas.
Groundbreaking Quality
Christine Ndanu, principal of Nova Academy, describes N*Gen as “truly groundbreaking in quality and featuring African female presenters.” “I absolutely love seeing women hosts,” Ndanu remarked. “Many educational videos we currently use don’t intentionally feature female presenters.” One of the male-led segments is “Shake It Out with Tadhi,” which encourages kids to get moving.
Viewership and Future Plans
Since October 2020, N*Gen has aired twice on weekends in Kenya, with each episode attracting an average viewership of 658,000 children under 14 and 642,000 adults. The cast and producers are working on a second season, which will address climate change issues. They plan to continue filming even if schools remain closed due to the pandemic.
The show has recently launched in North America and the Caribbean on The Africa Channel, airing every Saturday and Sunday at 6 a.m. and 9 a.m. ET.
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Summary:
N*Gen, a popular science show from Africa, is now available in the U.S., providing an engaging platform for children aged 8 to 12. With its African perspective, the program tackles various STEM topics in short episodes, showcasing female scientists and making science relatable to young viewers. It has garnered significant viewership in Kenya and is now airing in North America on The Africa Channel.
Keyphrase: N*Gen science show for kids
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