Teachers in the country are required to upgrade to diploma level to conform to the Competency-Based- Curriculum that the Education Ministry is implementing.
Speaking during a graduation ceremony at the International Teaching and Training Center (ITTC) in Isinya, Kajiado East Sub County, the Director of Teacher Education in the Ministry of Education, Dr. Salome Maina urged all teachers who graduated with a certificate in Early Childhood Education (ECDE) and Primary Teacher Education (PTE) to upgrade to diploma to conform to the new education reforms.
“Because of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) and the reforms at the Education Ministry, all the teachers teaching are supposed to be at the diploma level. Practicing teachers are supposed to upgrade in order to comply with the new system of education. All who are graduating with ECDE and PTE, please undertake the one-year upgrading course so that you can attain a diploma,” Dr. Maina said.
She noted that the 21st Century environment demands a highly flexible labour force which is demonstrated in the application of the technical and soft skills competencies.
“Today’s teacher must possess abilities that make them competitive both locally and globally thus training must go beyond the traditional role of imparting knowledge, skills, and attitude, and it is based on this expectation that the government adopted the CBC that is being implemented in the teacher training colleges.
“As a country, we are committed to producing a 21st-century teacher who has the requisite teaching skills and is willing to adapt to the learner-centered approaches that lay emphasis on nurturing every learner’s potential and responding to societal needs. We are also expecting teachers who will inspire the learners and engage them in a friendly manner by communicating to them effectively and creating an enabling environment for learning,” Dr Maina emphasized.
The Director said the government recognizes the critical role played by private institutions which provide education opportunities to Kenyans provided they offer quality education and meet expected standards.
Dr Maina further added that all the teachers are required to register with the Teachers’ Service Commission (TSC), familiarize themselves with the education reforms, and acquire the legal and policy documents on education which are easily accessible at the TSC and Ministry of Education websites.
The Director said the government is committed to ensuring that every Kenyan is given an equal opportunity to learn and study considering education is the right of every Kenyan adding that the government is continually investing in basic education and everyone is expected to actively participate in ensuring both boys and girls are given equal opportunities in education at all levels.
ITTC’s Board of Management chairperson William Aketch urged teachers to perform their role diligently to safeguard the fabric of the nation because they are the ones who shape the future of nations and added they must do so with integrity, professionalism, honesty, and honour.
Over 1,200 students graduated in Teacher Education, Primary Teacher Education, and Early Childhood Development Education courses alongside various TVET courses.
By Diana Meneto
