The Global Peace Foundation has awarded President Uhuru Kenyatta for his efforts in transforming education in the country.
The Head of State was recognised for his role in ensuring 100 per cent transition of pupils from primary to secondary schools, as well as for implementation of the Competency Based Curriculum.
Global Peace Foundation Executive Director Daniel Juma said the award was for exemplary effort exhibited by individuals or organisations to improve education.
"We award the individuals and institutions for their outstanding involvement in promoting education in the country," said Mr Juma.
The Standard Group was also recognised for its contribution to education through the Newspaper in Education (NiE) programme and the Great Places to School initiative.
One of the 10 commendation certificates went to Education Cabinet Secretary George Magoha for his "bold reforms in the education sector, which include implementation of government policies."
Prof Magoha was recognised for stemming the misappropriation of public funds in the Ministry of Education, and implementation of the government's 100 per cent transition policy.
Early Learning and Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Jwan was also feted for his role in implementation of government policies that have led to significant achievements in the education sector.
"The Government of Kenya is committed to ensuring access to inclusive and equitable quality education and training, as well as promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all," said Dr Jwan in a speech read on his behalf by Evelyne Ooko, an Education officer in the Ministry of Education.
The PS said education was a collective responsibility, adding that it was key to resolving many global and local challenges. "With the number of crisis-affected children and youth at an all-time global high, it is imperative that education, in emergencies, is put forward as a core consideration in all discussions."
Dr Jwan lauded the ministry for its "remarkable and transformative" strategies, including curriculum reforms, free basic education, integration of special needs and disabled learners in schools, and formulation of national guidelines for re-entry to school.
"We developed rules to ensure re-admission of girls who drop out of school due to pregnancy as well as early or forced marriage at all levels of training, as well as re-admission of boys."
Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development Assistant Director Jane Nyagah appealed to leaders to take education matters seriously.
"We urge our political leaders and decision-makers to ensure that generations of children and youth do not lose their right to a quality education," said Dr Nyagah.
