The Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD), in partnership with Mizizi Elimu Afrika, has officially launched the nationwide implementation of Values-based Education (VbE).
The launch also included the unveiling of key findings from a pilot study conducted in 19 counties, involving 79 schools and over 3,000 learners.
Speaking during the launch on Friday, April 3, KICD CEO Prof. Charles Ong’ondo emphasized the significance of the programme, noting that it would be rolled out in both regular and Special Needs Education (SNE) schools across all 47 counties.
Prof. Ong’ondo pointed out that the VbE initiative aligns with the values enshrined in the 2010 Constitution and is an essential pillar in the ongoing curriculum reforms.
“This initiative is crucial because values are not only embedded in our Constitution, but they are also central to the vision of shaping a curriculum that produces professionals and experts who uphold these values. Without them, we are doing a disservice to our country,” said Prof. Ong’ondo.
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He also highlighted the importance of the VbE programme, noting that while KICD has been focused on the roll-out of the Competency-Based Education (CBE) through curriculum designs and textbooks, this marks the first time the institute is launching a dedicated values programme.
Director of Special Needs Education at the Ministry of Education Fredrick Haga who represented Principal Secretary for Basic Education Prof. Julius Bitok, lauded the initiative as a major milestone for the education sector.
He stated that the programme would help transform learners into responsible citizens who will, in turn, contribute positively to the country’s future.
“This is a major step forward. The values instilled in our learners will play a key role in shaping the society we want to have,” said Haga.
He urged all stakeholders to take an active role in supporting the implementation of VbE, stressing that educating children with the desired values requires collective support and collaboration, particularly from parents.
Director of Research at Mizizi Elimu Afrika, Dr. Maurice Mutisya, emphasized that the values should not only be taught within educational institutions but also within communities, as this ensures a holistic approach to learning and personal development.
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He said the launch is a significant milestone that reflects the power of collaboration in building an education system where every child can learn, relate, and thrive.
Mizizi Elimu Afrika has played a key role in funding, sponsoring, and offering technical expertise in the development and implementation of the VbE programme.
KICD is supporting the national rollout by sensitizing relevant stakeholders to promote consistency, shared understanding, and collective responsibility across the country.
As part of the initiative, KICD has developed training programs aimed at building teachers’ capacity to nurture and assess the acquisition of values among learners.
Schools have documented several gains associated with implementing VbE. These include improved learner behaviour, enhanced discipline, strengthened teacher learner relationships, and a more positive school climate.
Co-curricular activities, structured routines, and teacher role modeling were widely acknowledged as effective platforms for promoting cooperation, respect, love, responsibility, and unity.
By Obegi Malack
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