University of Embu Aligns Courses, Retools Lecturers Ahead of 2029 CBE Transition

The university Management says it is retooling lecturers and other staff to equip them with the necessary skills and competencies to effectively handle students transitioning to the new education system.

Speaking during celebrations to mark 10 years since the University of Embu was awarded its charter, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Daniel Mugendi said the institution was reviewing its curriculum to ensure it meets the requirements of CBE.

Prof. Mugendi said the university had committed, as part of its performance contracting targets for the current year, to align at least 30 per cent of its curriculum with the requirements of the new education system.

He said the move was part of the institution's preparations to ensure a smooth transition for learners expected to join universities after completing their studies under the CBE framework. “The CBE curriculum is not like the normal curriculum we are using now. We are retooling our lecturers to ensure they are able to handle it properly,” Prof. Mugendi said.

The Vice Chancellor noted that successful implementation of CBE in universities would require a significant paradigm shift in teaching and learning approaches. He explained that unlike the traditional education system, which has largely emphasised content delivery, CBE focuses on learners' abilities, practical skills and the demonstration of competencies.

Prof. Mugendi said lecturers must therefore adapt their teaching methods to accommodate a more student-centred approach that places greater emphasis on individual learning abilities and practical application of knowledge.

The university's preparations come as institutions of higher learning begin planning for the transition of learners under the new education framework, which is expected to reshape university teaching, assessment and curriculum delivery.

The university Management said staff development and curriculum review would be central to ensuring that the institution is adequately prepared to receive the new cohort and provide training that responds to the demands of the competency-based system.

University Chancellor Prof. Musili Wambua expressed confidence that the new curriculum would be successfully implemented at university level, signalling optimism about the capacity of institutions of higher learning to adapt to the changes.

Prof. Wambua's remarks came as the university marked a decade since receiving its charter, an occasion that also provided an opportunity to reflect on its achievements and prepare for emerging developments in Kenya's education sector.

The University of Embu's ongoing reforms are expected to contribute to the broader transition towards competency-based learning, with the institution seeking to equip both its staff and students with the skills needed to navigate the evolving higher education landscape.