A retired high school teacher, Zablon Sereti, has appealed to the Ministry of Education (MoE) to introduce and strengthen the study of cultural studies in the Competency-Based Education (CBE).
Speaking at Kiong’anyo Cultural Organization during their monthly Edu-cultural Review meeting at Hotel Humphreys in Kisii town, Sereti, who is also a cultural expert and a member of Abagusii Council of Elders and Development, emphasized the importance of cultural studies in cementing family values, promoting social coherence, and fostering national unity.
“A cultural study is the backbone of our society,” Sereti said. “It teaches our children about their roots, traditions, and the values that make us who we are. By incorporating cultural studies into the CBE curriculum, we can ensure that our children grow up with a strong sense of identity and respect for their communities.”
Sereti, who spent over 30 years in the teaching profession, noted that the current education system focuses heavily on academic achievement, often neglecting the social and cultural aspects of a child’s development. “We need to strike a balance between academic excellence and cultural awareness,” he stressed.
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The retired educator suggested that cultural studies should cover topics such as family values, community cohesion, traditional practices, and national heritage. “These subjects will help our children appreciate the importance of family, respect their elders, and understand the diversity of our nation,” he added.
Sereti also challenged Kiong’anyo Cultural Organization to partner with other Organizations like Mwanyagetinge Heritage Council from Nyamira, the Luo Council of elders, and Njuri Njeke of the Meru Community, and Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) to draft a comprehensive curriculum on cultural studies to be implemented effectively in schools.
He also called on the Ministry of Education to provide adequate training and resources for teachers to effectively implement cultural studies in schools. “Teachers need to be equipped with the knowledge and skills to deliver this subject in a way that is engaging and relevant to our children’s lives,” he said.
The introduction of cultural studies in the CBE curriculum is seen as a timely move, given the increasing concerns about social cohesion and national unity in Kenya. By instilling cultural awareness and values in children from a young age, the country can build a more harmonious and inclusive society.
The Ministry of Education has been urged to consider Sereti’s proposal and take concrete steps to strengthen cultural studies in the CBE curriculum.
By Enock Okong’o
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