Egerton University Champions Shift to Competency-Based Education
Njoro, Nakuru County — In a bold step toward redefining higher education in Kenya, Egerton University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Kibwage, led from the front as he addressed over 160 faculty members at the university’s Amphitheatre in a transformative training on Competency-Based Education (CBE).
In a candid and thought-provoking keynote, Prof. Kibwage acknowledged the current challenges within the education sector — from limited financial resources to resistance to change among late adopters and traditionalists. Yet, his message was unwavering:
“We must adapt or risk irrelevance.”
The Vice Chancellor emphasized that CBE is not merely a passing policy trend, but a strategic, forward-thinking response to the demands of a rapidly evolving, skills-based global job market.
“Our graduates must be job-ready. They must master competencies, not just memorize facts. They must think critically, solve problems, and adapt in real time,” he added.
Egerton University has embarked on a deliberate and ambitious mission to embed CBE across all its academic programs, making the shift from traditional, exam-focused learning to learner-centered, outcome-driven education.
During the session, faculty members were not only trained but empowered to reimagine their roles — from content deliverers to facilitators of critical thinking, creativity, innovation, and practical skills development.
The training emphasized:
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Outcome-based curriculum design
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Hands-on, real-world application of knowledge
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Assessment that measures mastery, not memorization
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Lifelong learning mindsets among graduates
Prof. Kibwage was honest about the difficulties ahead — from curriculum redesign to shifting mindsets. But he reaffirmed the university’s commitment to being a national leader in higher education transformation.
“CBE is not optional. It is the only way to ensure our learners are relevant, employable, and capable of driving national development.”
As the global economy demands more agile, adaptable, and competent professionals, Egerton University is positioning itself at the forefront — preparing students not just to pass exams, but to thrive in the real world.