The “Teching Up CBC” event held on September 1st, 2023, at the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) was a significant milestone in Kenya’s educational journey. As the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) continues to reshape the landscape of teaching and learning in Kenya, the event brought together key stakeholders to explore how technology can enhance the delivery of learner-centered education. Organized by Kurasa Africa, this conference highlighted the role of educational technology (EdTech) in transforming classroom experiences and maximizing student potential.
Kurasa: Empowering the CBC through Formative Assessment
Kurasa Africa, a Kenyan EdTech startup, is at the forefront of this transformation. With a vision to revolutionize K-12 education, Kurasa focuses on using formative assessments as a key tool for measuring learner progress and supporting educators in unlocking each student’s full potential. Through Kurasa’s easy-to-use platform, teachers gain the tools they need to deliver better, more effective instruction, while closely monitoring student development.
The company’s mission is clear: to provide schools with powerful yet simple technology that enables the seamless integration of formative assessments into daily learning. Kurasa’s unique approach to student evaluations offers real-time data that supports teachers in providing personalized interventions for improved academic outcomes.
The Event’s Opening Remarks: A Call for Collaboration
The event commenced with a powerful message from Dr. Joseph Wambua, who emphasized the importance of collaboration between KICD and Kurasa. His remarks underscored four key areas crucial to the success of any educational system: curriculum content, assessments, pedagogical approaches, and the resources required for improved learning outcomes. Dr. Wambua encouraged teachers to embrace their role as facilitators of knowledge, skills, and attitudes in the classroom.
Challenges and Solutions: Kurasa’s Impact on CBC
The “Teching Up CBC” event addressed some of the pressing challenges facing the implementation of CBC. William Nguru, CEO of Kurasa Africa, launched the 2023 Kurasa Impact Report, reflecting on the challenges outlined in the Presidential Working Party on Education Reform. These include low parental engagement, inadequate infrastructure, teacher workload, and technological illiteracy.
Nguru’s presentation shed light on the top 20% of problems that have an 80% impact on the quality of CBC. He emphasized that these issues—ranging from curriculum interpretation to technophobia—can be addressed through the use of digital solutions. Kurasa’s platform, specifically designed for formative assessments, provides actionable data that not only supports individual learning but also informs curriculum planning at the national level.
The impact report showcased Kurasa’s journey from its founding during the COVID-19 pandemic to its current position as a leader in EdTech. Over the past three years, Kurasa has made significant strides in partnering with schools, educators, and other stakeholders to improve learning outcomes through the use of technology.
Recognizing Excellence in Education
Kurasa took the opportunity to honor outstanding educators who have made significant contributions to the CBC ecosystem. Among them was Eustace Gatenjwa from Witu School in Lamu, who received the Kurasa Expert Award 2023. Wendy Adhiambo from Kagaki School, Nakuru, was awarded the Kurasa Teacher Award 2023, recognizing her dedication to improving student outcomes through formative assessments.
The Future of Tech-Driven Education
Looking ahead, Kurasa aims to continue expanding its reach across the country. With a strong presence in Nairobi, Kiambu, Kirinyaga, and several ASAL (Arid and Semi-Arid Lands) counties such as Lamu and Kilifi, the company is poised to support more schools and learners. By focusing on daily assessments, Kurasa is helping educators bridge learning gaps, deliver more targeted professional development, and provide better learning outcomes.
The event ended with a call to action for more partnerships and collaborations. Kurasa’s commitment to leveraging technology to improve education is clear, and the “Teching Up CBC” event marked the beginning of a new chapter in the transformation of Kenya’s education system.
Conclusion: Leading the Way in Learner-Centered Education
The Teching Up CBC event emphasized the importance of EdTech in making the CBC more effective and student-focused. Kurasa’s innovative approach to formative assessments is helping educators not only monitor learner progress but also tailor teaching methods to meet individual needs. With ongoing efforts to expand and support more schools across Kenya, Kurasa continues to be a critical player in transforming education for the 21st century.
Stay tuned for more updates on Kurasa’s journey as we continue to innovate and enhance education through technology!
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