Kenya hosts Global Education Forum a landmark international workshop bringing together over 200 education experts and stakeholders

NAIROBI, Kenya, June 4 – The three-day workshop jointly organised by Ministry of Education and the Agha Khan Foundation brings together leading scholars from more than 30 countries with participants drawn from teachers, government officials, policy makers, human rights groups, development partners and other stakeholders.

Themed “How might teachers and schools be the partners of the choice in solving complex learning and education challenges?”. Places teachers at the centre of efforts to tackle climate change, conflict, digital disruptions, inequality and inclusion.

Principal Secretary, State Department for Basic education Julius Bitok, while officially opening the workshop said Kenya is honoured to host this year’s event which is focused on reimagining the role of teachers as drivers of innovation, equity and learning transformation.

“Teachers are not just implementers of Curriculum, they are mentors, innovators and trusted partners in transforming education systems “, said Bitok

The PS further used the forum to highlight the ongoing education reforms in the country that include piloting of the Kenya Education Management Information Systems (KEMIS) set to begin July ahead of full roll out in September.

“KEMIS marks a critical milestone in ensuring that data-driven decision making becomes cornerstone of education planning and service delivery in Kenya “, he added.

KEMIS will replace the current NEMIS platform and consolidate student’s data across all learning levels from ECDE to university into a singular integrated system, it will also help on accurate allocation of resources, enhance transparency and prevent manipulation of capitation through ghost schools or inflated enrollments.

In addition, the system will also include a mobile application to give parents and stakeholders real-time access to student and school data.

PS Bitok further noted that ongoing reforms include integrating climate resilience and disaster preparedness into teacher education in building environmental sustainability into Curriculum Based Education, Co-curricular activities and providing special focus to marginalized learners including girls and children with disabilities among others.