Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology has continued to train its academic staff on the Competency- Based Curriculum (CBC) in readiness for the transition into the new curriculum. On 18^th March, 2025, Deans, Chairpersons of Departments (CODs), and program leaders underwent an intensive training workshop on the new Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) framework, which was organized by the Directorate of Curriculum Review and Development (CReD). Participants were taken through the CBET structure, CBC pathways and assessment mechanisms.

Speaking during the event, the Registrar Academic Affairs, Prof. Judah Ndiku highlighted that the training was part of the University’s ongoing efforts to familiarize stakeholders with the CBC framework. He noted that the implementation of CBC is progressing well, with several Diploma, Certificate, and teacher-education programs already accredited in accordance with the 2023 CUE standards.

“We aim to integrate CBC University-wide. Let’s embrace it and shape the future together as 2029 approaches,” said Prof. Ndiku. He further encouraged participants to embrace innovation and contribute new knowledge while exploring postgraduate opportunities to enhance the University’s societal impact.

Prof. Judah Ndiku makes his remarks.

Providing a comprehensive roadmap for curriculum enhancement, the Director CReD, Dr. Teresa Okoth, urged participants to redefine the purpose of their programs by crafting a concise and intentional essence statement that clearly articulates the core focus of each course. She further emphasized the need to refine learning outcomes, ensuring they incorporate action-oriented verbs, relevant objects, and contextual elements to better align with educational goals.  

Dr. Okoth also encouraged continuous improvement of learning experiences by integrating engaging activities that foster skill acquisition as well as a redefinition of assessments, emphasizing authentic assessment methods that mirror real-world tasks and better prepare students for practical challenges.

“These refinements ensure that our curricula are purposeful, our learning outcomes are clear and actionable, our teaching methods are engaging, and our assessments truly measure real-world competency, equipping our learners with the skills they need to excel,” noted Dr. Okoth.

A section of participants keenly following the discussions.

It is worth noting that the event featured insightful presentations on CBC pathways, curriculum structures, and effective assessment strategies, including ‘An Overview of CBC Pathways’, ‘Basic Education Curriculum Framework’, ‘Learning outcomes’, ‘Authentic Assessment in CBET’, and ‘Structure of CBET Curriculum’.

As MMUST continues its transition toward CBC and CBET integration, such workshops play a critical role in equipping its academic staff with the knowledge and tools needed to drive meaningful curriculum reforms. There is no doubt that MMUST remains committed to delivering competency-based education that meets evolving industry demands and prepares graduates for success in a dynamic world.

By Caren Nekesa 

Photos by Shiundu Masafu