UoEm and ESTDEV Mark Successful Conclusion of Teacher Education Project

The University of Embu (UoEm) hosted a high-level ceremony to officially close the successful ESTDEV project, “Supporting the Transformation and Implementation of Competency-Based Teacher Education Curricula and Processes in Kenya.” The event took place on Friday, 28^th November, 2025 at the University Senate Boardroom following a three-day final training session for the program’s participants.

The participating Universities included; The University of Embu, Kabarak University, KCA University, Egerton University, Daystar University, Bomet University College, Catholic University of Eastern Africa, Karatina University, Maseno University, Masinde Muliro University of Science & Technology, and Taita Taveta University.

The event was graced by the presence of Senior dignitaries, including the Permanent Secretary for Higher Education represented by Education Secretary Dr Carol Hunja, Deputy Commission Secretary – Accreditation, Prof. Urbanus Mutwiwa, and the CEO of the Estonian Centre for International Development (ESTDEV) Klen Jäärats, and  ESTDEV Africa  Region Manager Katrin Winter

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Embu, Prof. Daniel Mugendi, in a speech read by Deputy Vice Chancellor (ARE) lauded the partnership with ESTDEV and Tallinn University for moving from an examination of traditional programs to co-creating innovative prototypes for teacher preparation. He stressed that the conclusion of the project comes at a pivotal moment, and expressed confidence that the dedicated team will continue providing leadership throughout the reform journey. He urged all universities to transition smoothly to the new system by prioritizing investments in infrastructure and human capacity. “We stand united in strengthening both pre-service and in-service teacher preparation, aligning programmes across institutions, and ensuring coherence between what is taught in universities and what is practiced in schools,” Prof. Mugendi stated, reaffirming the unwavering commitment of Kenyan universities to the seamless and effective implementation of the Competency-Based Education curriculum.

The UoEm Management was present to witness the culmination of the crucial initiative, which is set to significantly contribute to Kenya’s transition to a Competency-Based Education (CBE). The day’s events also featured a special courtesy call between the Government and Estonian delegates and the University Management, celebrating the strong partnership forged between the institutions.

The project, which ran from November 2024 to November 2025,  focused on enhancing the capacity of Education Deans to develop competency based education curricula in line with PWPER 2023  recommendations on Teacher Education Reforms.