In a pioneering effort to revolutionize educational practices, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology has officially launched the Master of Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience in Learning Dynamics. The Program, developed under the School of Education’s (SEDU) Department of Educational Psychology, is designed to address the rising need for specialized interventions in learning, particularly for students facing cognitive and affective challenges often overlooked in traditional educational settings. This initiative, which started with discussions in 2018, was spearheaded by the Dean SEDU, Prof. Moses Poipoi, the Associate Dean SEDU, Prof. Kennedy Bota and the Chairperson of the Educational Psychology Department, Dr. Edward Khasakala. Key collaborators in the program’s development include Prof. Paavo Leppänen and Dr. Susannah Leppänen from the University of Jyväskylä, Finland.
Prof. Paavo Leppänen and Dr. Susannah Leppänen launching the program.
The Chief Guest of the launch, who is the Director of the Centre of Excellence in Learning Dynamics and Intervention Research InterLearn at the University of Jyväskylä, Prof. Paavo Leppänen, hailed the program’s launch, noting that it is the beginning of a broader collaboration with MMUST. He highlighted the long-term goal of establishing MMUST as a pioneer in Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience Learning Dynamics across Africa.
“Learning is not just a transfer of knowledge. It involves complex interactions between cognition and emotion,” stated Prof. Paavo, emphasizing the importance of understanding cognitive and emotional responses in learning environments. Further, he commended the MMUST team for their dedication, expressing optimism about the program’s future success.
Prof. Paavo Leppänen speaking at the event.
Dr. Susannah Leppänen echoed Prof. Paavo’s sentiments, reflecting on the challenges and rewards of the collaboration. “It has been a very long and fruitful journey. I look forward to seeing MMUST becoming a hub of research in cognitive and affective neuroscience,” she remarked.
Dr. Leppänen applauded Dr. Khasakala for embracing the partnership and extended gratitude to the MMUST staff for their commitment to the project despite their demanding schedules.
“Education is a universal right, but learning is not one-size-fits-all. This program will open doors for learners with cognitive and emotional differences, helping educators develop tools to meet those needs,” she added.
Dr. Susannah Leppänen speaking during a courtesy call at the VC's office.
Representing the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation), Prof. Charles Mutai, the Director of Research and Postgraduate Studies, Prof. Francis Orata commended the team for their dedication and resilience in bringing the program to fruition. He highlighted that the introduction of the program marks a significant milestone not only for the University but also for the education sector at large.
“This program fills a critical gap that has long been ignored. By tackling this, we are transforming the approach to education and ensuring that students who struggle with these issues can thrive. Through our community outreach initiatives, we will ensure that the impact of this program is felt in the wider community. We will work closely with other stakeholders to apply this knowledge practically and make a difference in how learning is approached, especially for those who need specialized interventions,” explained Prof. Orata.
The DVC (Academic and Student Affairs), Prof. Hussein Golicha was represented by the Dean of Students, Dr. Benardatte Abwao. She noted that this new development aligns with MMUST’s vision of becoming a premier University in Science, Technology, and Innovation, and further strengthens the University’s commitment to research-driven solutions.
“This is a step forward in how we understand learning, and it will undoubtedly reshape perceptions in the education sector, ultimately leading to more inclusive and effective teaching strategies,” said Dr. Abwao.
The Registrar (Academic Affairs)- Prof. Judah Ndiku expressed delight at the launch of the program assuring the team of his support. He urged them to ensure that they maintain high standards of the program especially when setting up the physical cognitive laboratory.
“This is a unique program. With the increasing demand for neural experts who understand the brain potential of learners, I am certain that MMUST will attract many students to this Program to make it our niche. Our graduates will be able to contribute to the enhancement of personalized learning approaches, improve educational outcomes, and inform the development of effective interventions for diverse learners,” said Prof. Ndiku.
The Registrar (Academic Affairs)- Prof. Judah Ndiku addresses the participants.
Speaking during the launch, Prof. Poipoi highlighted the significance of this milestone, noting that it represents a transformative step in how we understand and address the diverse needs of our learners. He shared his delight saying that the launch has come at an ideal time when the School is aligning the University curriculum to the Competency-Based Curriculum. “Our goal is to equip professionals with advanced skills that are often missing in traditional educational settings, especially when it comes to supporting cognitive and emotional learning challenges. With these skills, I believe they will be able to develop more effective teaching strategies and interventions to enhance the educational outcomes of our learners,” said Prof. Poipoi.
Prof. Peter Odera, a renowned Professor of Psychology commended the launch of the program saying it will not only deepen the understanding of how emotions and cognition interact during the learning process, but it will also inform practical applications in educational settings. He encouraged his counterparts to embrace the cross-cultural aspect of the program saying that, this will help them understand and work seamlessly with stakeholders across different continents.
Prof. Peter Odera, a renowned Professor of Psychology addressing participants at the event.
The Department for Educational Psychology Chairperson, Dr. Edward Khasakala emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts, acknowledging the role that international partnership played in shaping the program.
“Our collaboration with the University of Jyväskylä has been invaluable. Prof. Paavo and Dr. Sussanah have been instrumental from the start, sharing their expertise in neuroscience and learning psychology. This program is the result of years of teamwork and a shared vision for improving education for students in Sub-Saharan Africa,” he said.
Dr. Susannah Leppänen receiving a gift from Prof. Judah Ndiku.
The other notable personalities who participated in the launch included the Director (Director of Curriculum Review and Development)- Dr. Joyce Kagendo, the Director (International Relations and Academic Linkages)- Dr. Umulkher Ali, Coordinator (Butula Study Centre)- Dr. Joel Ogutu, Director (Quality Assurance)- Prof. Danstone Lilechi, Dr. Everline Nyokabi (Maseno University) and CoDs from different departments.
With increasing recognition of the importance of emotional and cognitive factors in learning, MMUST is poised to become a leader in this emerging field in Africa and beyond. This new interdisciplinary masters program is set to begin enrolling students for the upcoming semester, targeting professionals in education, psychology, vision sciences, and related fields.
By Caren Nekesa and Linet Owuor
Photos by: Shiundu Masafu
