In preparation for the transition from the 8-4-4 education system, Kaimosi Friends University has conducted a comprehensive workshop on Competency-Based Education (CBE) for its academic staff. The two-day training, held on July 11th and 12th, 2024, in the university’s Assembly Hall, was officially opened by the acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Peter Mwita. The workshop was attended by Prof. Julius Kipkemboi, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs (DVC ASA&R), and Prof. Maurice Amadalo, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Administration, Finance, Planning and Development (DVC AFP&D), along with other academic staff from the university's five schools. The workshop was facilitated by CBC experts, Dr. Patricia Wambugu and Dr. Mary Waiganjo from Egerton University.
Prof. Mwita expressed his enthusiasm for the CBE training, emphasizing its timeliness given the ongoing changes in the education system and the increasing demand for skilled human resources. He highlighted the importance of institutions being prepared to embrace the transition from Knowledge-Based Education (KBE) to Competency-Based Education, aligning with KAFU's mission to become a world-class university known for innovation, research, transformation and community service.
The interactive workshop featured a variety of practical activities designed to reflect the CBE system. Academic staff were trained on the differences between KBE and CBE, with a focus on incorporating both systems while emphasizing competency over mere knowledge acquisition. The training also provided insights into how students can effectively apply the knowledge they acquire.
The central theme for the workshop was “Innovation in Education and Training: Competency Based Approaches for Modern University Education”. The Basic Education Curriculum Framework (BECF) highlights on two types of competencies: Technical/Functional (hard skills) and Transferable/Core (soft skills).
Group work activities were incorporated to keep the sessions engaging and active. Facilitators encouraged the academic staff to integrate practical activities, group work, and other innovative techniques to produce graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also competent and job-ready.
The facilitators emphasized the importance of instilling values in students, aligning with CBE’s goal of preparing holistic graduates. The rationale for adopting CBE is grounded in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), 21st Century Skills, African Agenda 2063, Global Citizenship, advancements in technology, dynamic societal needs, and recommendations from the Presidential Working Party on Education Reforms (PWPER).
Overall, the workshop underscored Kaimosi Friends University's commitment to staying ahead of educational transitions and ensuring its academic staff is well-equipped to foster a new generation of skilled, competent graduates.
