CBC, adult education hope for students who missed basic training

Education CAS for Early Learning Sarah Ruto. [David Gichuru, Standard]

Competency-Based Curriculum and adult education have been identified as key enhancers of lifelong learning.

Education CAS for Early Learning Sarah Ruto said adult and continuing education emphasises the need for skills and knowledge acquisition.

“Lifelong learning is based on the recognition that human beings have a natural drive to explore, learn and grow. It encourages us to improve the quality of life.”

Ruto spoke at a forum on policy dialogue on lifelong learning in Nairobi.

The two-day forum brought together education stakeholders and representatives from UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning.

The forum aims to build a partnership between public and private actors in basic, TVET, and higher education.

An incomplete classroom at Kibuogi Primary School in Suba South Constituency, Homa Bay County. November 8, 2021. [James Omoro, Standard]

“Adult education and learning is an integral part of lifelong learning because it comprises all forms of learning to ensure everyone participates,” the CAS said.

Ruto explained that adult education as a subsector embraces formal, non-formal and informal learning.

Those regarded as adults develop their capabilities for living and working, both in their own interests and for their communities.

“Adult education as part of lifelong learning contributes to the realisation of the right to education for adolescents, young people, and adults. Individuals most likely to benefit from it are those who missed out on basic education in the first place,” Ruto said.

She added that Kenya is among the countries that endorsed the Education 2030 Agenda. It is guided by Sustainable Development Goal IV on inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all.

“Education is the key driver to economic development. The concept of lifelong learning was adopted to provide for continuous learning.”

“We are living in a dynamic world that demands us to keep up-to-date with the emerging socio-economic and technological changes by acquiring new knowledge and developing new skills,” she added.

Pupils in a makeshift classroom in Turkana County, 2020. [Stafford Ondego, Standard]

However, the CAS said narrow understanding of the field of lifelong learning and conceptual tension between adult education, adult learning, lifelong education and lifelong learning has led to reduced attention to this area of education at both policy and practice levels.

“It does not only enhance social inclusion and individual development but also increases competitiveness and employability.”

She said collaboration and partnership among the public and private actors in basic, TVET and higher education will ensure Kenya meets the need of those participating in the programmes.