In West Pokot County,1800 ECDE teachers participated in an intensive one-week training program held at the Tegla Loroupe Multi-Purpose Hall. The training, spearheaded by the EIDU and TAYARI initiatives, focused on equipping educators with advanced pedagogical skills, both theoretical and practical, to effectively integrate Information Communication Technology (ICT) into their teaching practices.
Speaking at the opening of the training, ECDE Director Joseph Tonyirwo highlighted the critical role of the EIDU and TAYARI initiatives in keeping education relevant in the 21st century. Tonyirwo urged teachers to engage wholeheartedly with the training, emphasizing the importance of quality, relevance, access, and equity in modern education.
“The EIDU initiative aims to bridge the educational divide between low and middle-income countries and the developed world,” Tonyirwo stated. “Our goal is to create a global education platform where all stakeholders can interact on an equal footing, simplifying complexities within the educational landscape.”
He further explained that the TAYARI acronym stands for a tutor who enters the classroom well-prepared, not only with relevant content but also with up-to-date knowledge enhanced by ICT. This approach ensures that teachers are ready to deliver impactful and meaningful lessons to their students.
Led by Sarah Chebet, the training team introduced a technology-based platform that integrates high-impact interventions into a coherent, user-friendly system for teachers, learners, and other key education stakeholders. Chebet noted that the program, which is being implemented in four counties, is supported by the Children Investment Fund Foundation in partnership with the Ministry of Education and county governments. This collaboration aims to make learning more engaging and enjoyable.
Teachers expressed their appreciation for the ICT gadgets provided through the program, which have transformed the teaching of complex concepts. They noted that subjects like Arithmetic and Language, often challenging for young learners, have become more accessible and easier to understand, eliminating previous difficulties with reading.
The training not only focused on enhancing teachers’ ICT skills but also introduced a system for tracking various aspects of the learning process. This includes monitoring teachers’ attendance, learners’ progress, and other assessment areas online, enabling relevant officers to conduct evaluations without needing to visit educational institutions physically.
Through the integration of technology in teaching, the EIDU and TAYARI initiatives are poised to transform early childhood education in West Pokot County. This innovative approach promises to bridge educational gaps, ensuring that learners receive a quality education that is both relevant and equitable, thereby preparing them for a brighter future in an ever-changing world.
