Teachers have lauded the Presidential Awards Kenya programme as a key pillar in supporting the goals of Competency-Based Education (CBE) by promoting holistic learner development.
Nancy Matere, the programme’s national leader and a teacher, said the award scheme aligns closely with CBE objectives, which seek to nurture learners physically, mentally, socially and emotionally.
“The programme targets young people aged between 14 and 24 years and is widely implemented in schools, colleges, universities and youth organisations across Kenya,” said Matere.
She spoke during an Education Day held at Limuru Girls High School under the President’s Award Programme. The event attracted more than 1,800 young participants from 35 schools across the Central Region.
Matere explained that the scheme is the Kenyan branch of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, a globally recognised youth development programme operating in many countries worldwide.
She noted that the initiative is anchored on four key pillars of personal development.
The first pillar focuses on community service, where participants engage in voluntary activities such as environmental conservation, community clean-ups, and visits to children’s homes and hospitals.
“This helps learners develop compassion, empathy and a sense of social responsibility,” she said.
ALSO READ:
Concern as recruitment of QASOs by MoE sparks outrage from teachers
The second pillar centres on skills development, in line with CBE’s emphasis on practical learning. Matere said encouraging learners to pursue personal interests such as music, cooking, arts and crafts nurtures creativity and promotes lifelong learning.
The third pillar emphasises physical recreation through participation in sports and activities such as athletics, football and swimming. According to Matere, this promotes discipline, teamwork, perseverance and healthy living.
The fourth pillar, adventurous journey, involves outdoor expeditions and group challenges designed to build leadership, resilience and problem-solving skills.
Limuru Girls High School Principal Susan Kariuki praised the programme for complementing academic learning through holistic development.
“As a school, we are proud to be part of a programme that goes beyond academic achievement and focuses on nurturing responsible, resilient, disciplined and compassionate individuals,” she said.
Kariuki added that the initiative enables learners to realise their full potential through community service, outdoor adventure, leadership, physical fitness and practical skills development.
“In a rapidly changing world, education can no longer be confined to the classroom alone. True education prepares students to solve problems, work with others, serve the community and adapt positively to life’s challenges,” she said.
Students were encouraged to uphold integrity, hard work, responsibility and service, with speakers noting that the programme equips learners with life skills that conventional examinations cannot adequately measure.
By Frank Mugwe
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
>>> Click here to stay ahead with the latest national news.
