In a bold step toward transforming higher education, Multimedia University of Kenya (MMU) has officially launched a university-wide sensitization program on Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET).
The initiative aims to equip its academic staff with the knowledge and strategies needed to effectively transition to a more practical, outcome-oriented education model.
Held at the MMU Conference Hall on June 23, 2025, the two-day training was inaugurated by Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof. Livingstone Ngoo, on behalf of Vice Chancellor Prof. Rosebella Maranga.
ALSO READ:
Jubilation rocks as a kind investor gifts community with a technical college to tap local talents
In her address, Prof. Maranga described CBET as more than just a new curriculum, it represents a strategic and philosophical shift in teaching and learning. “We are gathered here not merely to satisfy a policy directive,” she noted, “but to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to delivering quality, relevant education that prepares our graduates for today’s dynamic job market.”
CBET is designed to move beyond the traditional 8-4-4 examination-driven model, promoting hands-on learning that centers on the development of practical skills and real-world competencies. This transition seeks to align university training with evolving labor market expectations and national development priorities.
ALSO READ:
Kitui Special Needs Education boosted as school for Visually Impaired opened
Prof. Ngoo underscored the need for a transformative mindset among faculty members, advocating for collaborative curriculum redesign, the adoption of student-centered pedagogy, and stronger ties with industry stakeholders. “For this model to take root, we must think beyond lectures and syllabi. We must think about skills, application, and relevance,” he emphasized.
Prof. Raphael Nyonje, Director of Quality Assurance at Open University of Kenya, linked CBET reforms with global trends. He also highlighted Kenya’s legal and policy frameworks that back the shift.
Citing a 2018 Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE) survey, Prof. Nyonje warned of the ongoing mismatch between academic training and labor market needs as over 50% of Kenyan graduates lack the technical and soft skills required to perform effectively in the workforce without additional training. “There is a pressing need to bridge the gap between academic programs and labor market realities,” he said.
MMU CBET Readiness Committee Chairperson Dr. Martin Magu reaffirmed the university’s readiness to institutionalize CBET practices.
Prof. Ngoo called on all academic staff to champion CBET’s implementation, by collectively redesigning Programmes, adopting practical and learner-centered approaches and collaborating closely with industry stakeholders. “This transformation demands open minds, shared responsibility, and a vision for future-ready education,” Prof. Ngoo stated.
By Masaki Enock
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
