Nairobi: Over 200 education experts from more than 30 countries have converged in Nairobi for a three-day international workshop focused on rethinking the role of teachers in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and rapid technological change.
According to Kenya News Agency, the forum, jointly organised by the Ministry of Education and the Aga Khan Foundation, has brought together teachers, policymakers, government officials, development partners, and education stakeholders to deliberate on solutions to emerging challenges in the learning sector.
Speaking during the official opening at a Nairobi hotel, Education Principal Secretary (PS) Prof. Julius Bitok said the conference aims to explore how schools and educators can play a central role in driving innovation, equity, and learning transformation. 'Teachers are not just implementers of the curriculum. They are mentors, innovators, and trusted partners in transforming education systems,' noted Prof. Bitok.
He restated the government's commitment to empowering teachers through training, professional development, and digital tools to ensure inclusive and quality education for all learners. Additionally, the PS used the forum to announce the piloting of the Kenya Education Management Information System (KEMIS) set to begin in July, with a full rollout expected in September. The new platform will replace the National Education Management Information System (NEMIS), aiming to streamline data management across all levels of education.
'KEMIS marks a critical milestone in ensuring that data-driven decision-making becomes the cornerstone of education planning and service delivery in Kenya,' he asserted. Prof. Bitok revealed that the platform will consolidate student data from Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) to university into a unified system and include a mobile application for real-time access to information by parents and stakeholders.
According to the PS, this year's forum is themed 'How Might Teachers and Schools Be the Partners of Choice in Solving Complex Learning and Education Challenges?' and places educators at the centre of tackling issues such as climate change, digital disruption, inequality, and inclusion. He also highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at integrating climate resilience, disaster preparedness, and support for marginalised learners, including girls and children with disabilities, into teacher education and co-curricular programmes.
Meanwhile, the forum coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Aga Khan Foundation's work in Kenya, which spans across education, health, civil society, and rural development.