Kwale: The Kenyan government has announced plans to revamp the adult education sector in an effort to better prepare citizens for a knowledge-driven economy. The initiative aims to modernize the curriculum to align with national development goals and the demands of the 21st century, emphasizing digital literacy and practical skills.
According to Kenya News Agency, Principal Secretary for Social Protection and Senior Citizen Affairs, Joseph Mogosi Motari, stated that the government is in advanced stages of revising the adult education curriculum. Planned changes include expanding the number of instructors, upgrading learning centers, and increasing funding to equip adult learners with relevant skills for national development. This overhaul will align adult education with the Competency-Based Education (CBE) system, which focuses on practical and digital skills essential in today's economy.
PS Motari highlighted the introduction of computer literacy centers in training institutes, community learning centers, and adult education facilities as part of these efforts. He stressed the importance of modernizing the curriculum to address rapid technological advancements, artificial intelligence, and automation that are transforming the workforce. Education, he said, must shift towards problem-solving, critical thinking, and adaptability to improve personal and professional outcomes.
The government is also addressing challenges within the sector, such as the decline in adult education officers, which has undermined service delivery. PS Motari noted that consultations with the Public Service Commission and the National Treasury are underway to recruit more officers, lecturers, and instructors. He emphasized the commitment to continuous professional development to build the capacity of existing personnel.
During a speech in Kwale town at the International Literacy Day celebrations, PS Motari underscored the need for digital literacy as a critical component of modern education. He noted that the national adult literacy rate stands at 82.9 percent, but Kwale County's rate is notably lower at 57 percent, with a significant gender gap. The choice to hold the event in Kwale was deliberate, aiming to draw attention to these challenges and rally stakeholder commitment to expanding literacy opportunities.
Kwale Deputy Governor Chirema Kombo echoed these sentiments, highlighting the county government's efforts to support education through the 'Elimu Ni Sasa' scholarship scheme. This bursary program, initiated in 2013, targets bright but needy students, offering financial assistance for secondary and college education.
The reform of the adult education sector is seen as a crucial step towards empowering diverse groups within society, particularly older persons who can benefit from financial literacy and skill upgrades to adapt to changing labor markets. PS Motari concluded that adult education supports national goals such as gender equality, sustainable resource management, and economic resilience.