Primary school teachers urged to embrace digital innovation for quality education

SADIK HASSAN-KNA 

Primary school teachers have been urged to embrace digital innovation to ensure that learners receive quality education regardless of their backgrounds. 

Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei, encouraged teachers to consider how best they can collaborate with relevant stakeholders to equip learners with the competencies, skills, attitudes, and values needed to thrive in the 21st century. 

“Since we stand at the crossroads of a digital revolution, we must recognize that education is not just a pathway to knowledge; it is a cornerstone for innovation, equity, and sustainability,” Koskei said when he opened the Kenya Primary Schools Headteachers Association (KEPSHA) Conference in Mombasa. 

The 25th conference, attended by over 15,000 headteachers, was themed: “Transformative Leadership in the Digital Transition for Inclusive and Sustainable Quality Basic Education in Kenya.” 

The journey toward a fully digital education system, the Chief of Staff stated, is rooted in a vision of inclusivity and progress. 

He noted that by leveraging digital technology, the country stands to expand access to quality learning opportunities to every corner, even the most remote areas. 

“With digital platforms students in underserved regions can connect to the same educational resources as those in urban areas, closing the gap in educational equity. 

“Digital technology enables us to break down barriers, allowing every child—regardless of their background—to have a chance at a brighter future,” the Chief of Staff said. 

Koskei lauded the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) terming it as a coherent system that is in tune with the digital shift the education sector envisions to transition to. 

Through CBC, he said, the Ministry is not merely teaching content, but rather preparing learners with the critical skills they need to thrive in the 21st century workforce. 

“The integration of digital literacy into our curriculum is a forward-looking approach that emphasises creativity, adaptability, and critical thinking, essential skills in today’s fast-evolving global landscape,” Koskei said. 

“The digital transformation sweeping across the globe presents us with a powerful opportunity to bridge the digital divide and elevate learning outcomes. 

“This digital transition demands that we do more than integrate technology into our classrooms. 

It requires us to redefine how we teach, learn, and lead,” he added. 

The Chief of Staff reiterated the government’s commitment to providing free compulsory basic education, as enshrined in the Constitution of Kenya and recognised as a fundamental human right. 

To support this, the government is workingtowards ensuring timely capitation funding across all levels of basic education.

The head teachers were exhorted to implement policies that promote accountability, prudent resource use, and the efficient running of school operations. 

During the Financial Year 2024/2025, the education sector has been allocated Sh627.7 billion, with Sh24.217 billion designated for primary schools and Sh30.7 billion for junior schools. 

“This significant allocation underscores the trust placed in us to use these resources wisely and responsibly to benefit every Kenyan child,” Koskei said. 

The head teachers were further encouraged to uphold the principles enshrined in the Public Finance Management Act and the Public Procurement and Assets Disposal Act. 

“Adherence to these statutes is not merely procedural; it is foundational to fostering transparency and ensuring impeccable audit trails.

“By steadfastly following these guidelines, we embody accountability and integrity, affirming our commitment to the responsible stewardship of public resources,” the Chief of Staff stated.