j.gitahi – Kenya National Commission for UNESCO

UNESCO/China Great Wall Fellowships 2026-2027

j.gitahi — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 12:07:05 +0000

The UNESCO/The People’s Republic of China – The Great Wall Co-Sponsored Fellowships Programme 2026-2027 edition is now open

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), in collaboration with the Government of the People’s Republic of China, invites applications for the Great Wall Co-Sponsored Fellowships Programme for the 2026–2027 academic year. The programme provides fully funded postgraduate and research opportunities in recognized Chinese universities for qualified candidates from developing UNESCO Member States, with the aim of strengthening international cooperation, academic exchange, and capacity development.

Programme Categories

The fellowship supports the following study and research pathways:

Master’s Degree Programmes
Doctoral (PhD) Programmes
Visiting Scholar / Research Programmes

Programmes may be offered in English or Chinese, depending on the host institution and field of study. Applicants to Chinese-taught programmes must meet the required language proficiency.

Fields of Study

Eligible fields are aligned with UNESCO’s mandate and include, but are not limited to:

Education
Natural Sciences
Engineering, Science and Technology
Culture and Heritage Studies
Communication and Information
Social and Human Sciences

Eligibility Criteria

The applicants must:

Nationals of eligible developing UNESCO Member States
Meet academic admission requirements for the chosen programme
Demonstrate strong academic merit and development potential

Application Procedure

Applicants must submit their applications through their respective National Commissions for UNESCO.

Important Dates

23 January 2026: Deadline for submission to KNATCOM – sg@unesco.go.ke
10 February 2026: Deadline for nominations to UNESCO by KNATCOM

More Information

For detailed eligibility requirements, application guidelines, and official documentation, please visit: https://www.unesco.org/en/fellowships/greatwall or reach us via our official email sg@unesco.go.ke

Advancing ICT Integration in Teaching and Learning

j.gitahi — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 06:37:03 +0000

KNATCOM in partnership with the Ministry of Education successfully implemented the UNICEF-funded UKPPL Digital Learning Programme. This is a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing ICT integration in education. It empowers school leaders, teachers, and members of Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) and Boards of Management (BoMs) with essential digital skills, while also raising awareness of key education policies.
The programme’s core mission is to improve teaching and learning outcomes in Kenya’s primary schools. By strengthening digital literacy and competencies, it equips educators and learners with the tools they need to thrive in a modern, technology-driven world. The platform is designed to make teaching more effective by saving time, expanding reach, and ensuring equal access for all learners – including those in remote areas and children with special needs.
By integrating ICT into classrooms, learners develop critical thinking, digital competencies, collaborative skills, and other 21st-century skills. These abilities enhance learning outcomes and prepare students to succeed in a knowledge-based society and contribute meaningfully to a modern, innovation-driven economy.
The programme aligns with Kenya’s digitalization agenda, guided by the Kenya National Digital Master Plan 2022–2032, which emphasizes digital literacy and ICT skills in schools. Moreover, it supports UNESCO’s vision for inclusive, quality education, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4 and SDG 10), and regional digital learning initiatives across Africa.
To advance this initiative, a collaborative workshop was held from 25th to 29th August 2025 at Machakos Teachers Training College. Experts and stakeholders from the Ministry of Education (MoE), KNATCOM, and the ICT Authority came together to review the programme and explore practical strategies for integrating ICT into classrooms. This engagement laid the foundation for the pilot rollout.
A two-week pilot phase will be conducted across 13 target counties: Turkana, Samburu, West Pokot, Garissa, Mandera, Wajir, Tana River, Marsabit, Bungoma, Busia, Homa Bay, Kilifi, and Kajiado. It will also include informal settlements in Nairobi. During this period, teachers will engage with the platform both online and in person. Their feedback will help refine the programme before a full-scale rollout. This phased approach ensures the initiative remains responsive to local needs and realities.
KNATCOM continues to champion the ICT Integration in education, reinforcing its commitment to inclusive, engaging, and future-ready education. Through this support, the commission ensures that technology and digital skills are effectively embedded in teaching and learning, giving every child the opportunity to learn, innovate, and succeed.

Empowering Educators for a Digital Future: the UKPPL digital earning project

j.gitahi — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 06:29:19 +0000

The Kenya National Commission for UNESCO (KNATCOM), in partnership with the Ministry of Education and with the support of UNICEF, is promoting ICT Integration in Education through the UKPPL Digital Learning Programme.
This initiative aligns with the Education Sector Strategic Plan (2023–2027), the KNATCOM Strategic Plan 2024-2028 that promotes Inclusive and equitable quality education, and the Government of Kenya’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), reflecting the nation’s commitment to advancing quality education through technology and innovation.

Through the programme, comprehensive ICT Integration course content was developed and digitized into a dynamic Learning Management System (LMS) accessible via https://elearning.unesco.go.ke, with technical support from ICT Authority Kenya. The self-paced course builds the capacity of facilitators, school leaders comprising of the Board of Management and the Head of institutions, and teachers, enabling them to integrate ICT effectively in teaching and learning.
To date, over 600 primary school teachers from more than 14 counties across Kenya have enrolled. Upon successful completion, participants receive a certificate of achievement, recognizing their digital competency.
In addition, the programme has collaborated with community radio stations to create awareness among teachers, learners, and parents on key Digital Learning policies, including the Policy on Information and Communication Technology in Education and Training, the National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy, and the Data Protection Regulations. Teachers were also sensitized on the existing digital learning opportunities, enabling them to make informed use of emerging educational technologies and platforms.
During the monitoring and evaluation exercises, teachers expressed overwhelming satisfaction, noting that the course has strengthened their capacity to apply digital tools in lesson delivery, making learning more engaging, enjoyable effective.
By equipping educators with 21st-century digital skills and promoting responsible use of technology, Digital Learning has an immense potential in shaping a future-ready generation and advancing Kenya’s vision for inclusive, innovative, and technology-driven education.

Baringo County Sets Sights on UNESCO Geopark Status: Experts Finalize Nomination Dossier

j.gitahi — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 04:53:52 +0000

Baringo County Sets Sights on UNESCO Geopark Status: Experts Finalize Nomination Dossier
From 16–22 November 2025, a multidisciplinary team led by the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO (KNATCOM), in collaboration with the Baringo County Government, convened in Baringo County to finalize the nomination dossier for the Baringo Great Rift Valley aspiring Geopark (BGRVaG). The intensive workshop brought together leading institutions including the National Museums of Kenya, Directorate of Geological Survey, State Department for Culture and Heritage, Kenya Tourism Board, Egerton and Maseno Universities, and the Baringo County Conservancies Association, with the shared goal of submitting the dossier to the UNESCO Global Geoparks Programme by 30 November 2025.
Supported by the UNDP-GEF Small Grants Programme, this initiative seeks to position Baringo as a UNESCO-designated geopark, unlocking opportunities for sustainable development, geotourism, geo-product innovation, research, and global networking. With Africa still underrepresented in the Global Geoparks Network—boasting only four recognized geoparks despite its immense geological heritage—Kenya’s bid aligns with UNESCO’s vision of integrating geological, cultural, and natural heritage for conservation, education, and sustainable development. If successful, Kenya will join other nations such as Morocco, Tanzania, and Tunisia in embracing this transformative designation, which currently spans 229 geoparks across 50 countries worldwide (as of August 2025). The event was graced by H.E. Benjamin Cheboi, Governor of Baringo County, alongside senior county officials, underscoring strong local commitment to this landmark initiative.

KNATCOM Champions National Effort to Foster Respect and Prevent School-Related Violence Through Teacher Education Training

j.gitahi — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 04:49:24 +0000

KNATCOM Champions National Effort to Foster Respect and Prevent School-Related Violence Through Teacher Education Training
From 12th to 14th November, the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO (KNATCOM), with support from UNESCO, convened a three-day workshop on Connect with Respect (CWR) training for teacher educators at Kenyatta University. This initiative underscores KNATCOM’s commitment to promoting safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environments across Kenya.
The workshop brought together education professionals from various departments within Kenyatta University’s School of Education, including the Centre for Teacher Professional Development and Excellence, Educational Psychology, Early Childhood and Special Needs Education, ICT, Educational Foundations, and Education Management, Policy and Curriculum Studies. The event was graced and officially opened by Professor Samson Ondigi, Dean of the School of Education.
Over the three days, participants engaged in intensive capacity-building sessions on the CWR methodology. The training equipped teacher educators with practical strategies to create classrooms that nurture empathy, non-violent conflict resolution, and gender-respectful interactions among learners. Through collaborative learning, group discussions, and hands-on activities, educators explored modules on communication skills, positive peer relationships, gender equality, school mapping of gender-based violence, help-seeking and peer support strategies, and approaches to preventing and responding to violence in school settings.
Facilitators emphasized the pivotal role of teacher educators in shaping classroom culture and modelling respectful behaviours that safeguard children’s wellbeing and holistic development. The CWR program aligns with Kenya’s national commitment to addressing school-related gender-based violence and fostering healthy relationships within education spaces.
The training reaffirmed a shared vision: building learning environments where every learner feels valued, protected, and empowered. By equipping teacher educators with tools to promote respect and prevent violence, KNATCOM is contributing to a culture of peace, empathy, and positive social behaviour within Kenya’s education system. These efforts lay a strong foundation for an education sector that not only counters harmful behaviours but also champions dignity, diversity, and national cohesion.

Strengthening digital literacy for the ECDE teachers

j.gitahi — Sat, 29 Nov 2025 18:21:49 +0000

The Kenya National Commission for UNESCO (KNATCOM), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the Kirinyaga County Government, conducted a transformative capacity-building workshop on ICT Integration in Learning for 400 ECDE teachers across Kirinyaga County, hosted at Kiamukuyu Polytechnic. The training workshop, which commenced on 24th November 2025, aligned with the KNATCOM Strategy on promoting education for Peace and Sustainable Development, while fostering inclusive learning processes for all, Kenya’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (Digital Pillar), and Kirinyaga County’s Digital Literacy enhancement initiative for ECDE teachers.
The training entailed engaging teachers in practical, immersive sessions designed to build both confidence and hands-on competence in ICT-enabled teaching. The facilitators introduced them to foundational concepts of ICT integration, including the policy and legal frameworks that guided the use of digital tools in education. Teachers explored the TPACK model and learned how to apply it when planning developmentally appropriate digital learning experiences for young learners.
Participants also strengthened their essential ICT skills, from navigating computer systems to using productivity tools that supported lesson preparation and professional documentation. They gained exposure to a variety of digital tools and software that enhanced teaching, including applications for designing ICT-integrated lesson plans, creating and presenting digital learning materials, and leveraging photo and video editing tools to enrich classroom content.
Additionally, teachers learned to apply spreadsheets for basic data management in the ECDE environment, harnessed the internet responsibly as a learning and communication resource, and understood digital safety practices to protect both teachers and learners. The training also included basic troubleshooting and maintenance to build self-reliance when using digital tools in classrooms.
These hands-on activities culminated in the development and presentation of action plans that teachers proposed to help them integrate ICT in the classroom environment. This collaborative initiative marked a significant milestone in enhancing teachers’ capacity to integrate ICT into their daily teaching and learning practices.

Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga message of condolence

j.gitahi — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 08:55:52 +0000

Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, EGH

The Board of Directors, Management, and the Staff of the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO join the nation in mourning the passing of The Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, EGH.

We extend our deepest condolences to his family and to the people of the Republic of Kenya. His distinguished service, unwavering dedication to democracy, and commitment to national unity will be remembered with great respect and admiration.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Strategic Partnership Meeting on AI in TVET Held at Microsoft Offices in Kenya

j.gitahi — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 13:24:34 +0000

Strategic Partnership Meeting on AI in TVET

A strategic physical and virtual meeting was held today 7th October 2025 at the Microsoft Offices at Dunhill Towers, Westlands, Nairobi, which is the Africa Development Centre (ADC) and a regional hub for East Africa. The meeting aimed to strengthen collaboration between Microsoft, Kenya National Commission for UNESCO (KNATCOM) and Rift Valley Institute of Business Studies (RVIBS) in the upcoming conference on Artificial Intelligence and the future of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) scheduled for 17th October 2025 at St. Mary’s Pastoral & Conference Centre, Nakuru among other issues.

The session brought together the key partners involved the planning for the successful organization of the conference. The partners committed to advancing digital transformation in Kenya through TVET. Discussions centered on harnessing Microsoft’s technological expertise and KNATCOM’s policy and capacity building expertise to accelerate the integration of AI in Kenya’s TVET sector. This partnership aims to work with RVIBS to promote inclusive, ethical, and sustainable AI adoption in education and skills development, that are aligned with UNESCO’s global priorities and Kenya’s national development agenda among other issues.

This collaboration marks a significant milestone in fostering innovation, capacity building, and digital inclusion within Kenya’s TVET ecosystem. All committed to co-developing impactful conference sessions, mobilizing resources, and engaging TVET stakeholders effectively.

Furthermore, the parties agreed to explore broader collaboration through KNATCOM’s core programmes in Education, Natural Sciences, Social and Human Sciences, Culture, and Communication & Information, ensuring a holistic approach to AI integration across disciplines.

KNATCOM was represented physically in the meeting by Dr. James Njogu, Ag. Secretary General/CEO; Dr. Joel Ongoto, Ag. Deputy Secretary General, Research and Resource Mobilization and Director of the Social and Human Sciences (SHS) Programme; and Dr. Patrick Kasyula, Deputy Director, Research and Consultancy. Microsoft was represented physically in the meeting by Ms. Winnie Karanu, Mr. Joe Gaiku, and Mr. George Kiptalam.

Virtual participants included, Dr. Dan Karanja, RVIBS, Ms. Emily Wangui, RVIBS, Mr. John Gitau, RVIBS, Ms. Ann Magut, Pathways Technologies, and Ms. Becky Abraham, Pathways International.

Strengthening capacity for Nature-Based Solutions in the Mount Kenya–Lewa Biosphere Reserve

j.gitahi — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 08:53:36 +0000

𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞-𝐁𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬

KNATCOM Strengthens Local Capacity at Biosphere Reserves

Sustainable development through nature-based solutions (NbS), with a strong emphasis on community empowerment, gender equity, and youth inclusion.

In June 2025, KNATCOM conducted a comprehensive study at the Malindi-Watamu-Arabuko Sokoke and Mount Kenya-Lewa Biosphere Reserves. The objective: to evaluate the effectiveness, scalability, and sustainability of NbS initiatives, while identifying challenges faced by local communities—especially women and youth—in amplifying conservation outcomes.

𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐢𝐭𝐲-𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐬

On 4th and 5th September 2025, KNATCOM convened two parallel workshops in Nanyuki (CETRAD) and Mombasa (Kenya School of Government), bringing together 80 community stakeholders. These sessions served as a platform to present findings from the study and equip participants with practical strategies to enhance NbS implementation. The research publication was also launched.

KNATCOM Ag. Secretary General/CEO Dr. James Njogu, HSC Making his remarks during the workshop

In his opening remarks, Dr. James Njogu, Ag. Secretary General/CEO of KNATCOM, lauded the participants’ commitment to conservation despite resource constraints. He urged communities to scale up NbS interventions, especially in transition zones, and to embed gender and youth representation in governance structures to ensure equitable decision-making and benefit sharing.

“By harnessing their diverse perspectives, innovative ideas, and collective action, conservation efforts can achieve greater impact, relevance, and long-term success.” — Dr. James Njogu, Ag. SG/CEO

𝐀𝐝𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐛𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐬 𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲

The report underscores the potential of biosphere reserve communities to tackle pressing global issues—climate change, biodiversity loss, water scarcity, food insecurity, health risks, urbanization, and youth unemployment—through nature-based approaches.

Participants engaged in dynamic discussions to identify barriers and co-create solutions for effective NbS implementation. The workshops also showcased a variety of successful community-led initiatives already underway across the reserves.

A section of the Participants during the workshop.

𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 UNESCO

This initiative was made possible through the UNESCO Participation Programme, with co-financing from KNATCOM.

KNATCOM Champions STEM Innovation in Kenya Through “Windows to STEM” Initiative

j.gitahi — Thu, 11 Sep 2025 13:00:57 +0000

The Kenya National Commission for UNESCO (KNATCOM), through its Natural Sciences Programme, proudly spearheads the coordination of the Windows to STEM initiative in Kenya—an ambitious programme aimed at transforming STEM education by equipping teachers with cutting-edge skills in AI, robotics, and 3D printing.

In partnership with the Ministry of Education (MOE), and under the global leadership of BOE Technology Group Co., Ltd. and UNESCO, KNATCOM is driving forward a bold vision to empower educators and prepare learners for a rapidly evolving technological future. This initiative aligns with KNATCOM’s strategic mandate to promote science, innovation, and sustainable development across Kenya’s education landscape.

A two-day pilot workshop held on 30–31 August 2025 at the Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA), Karen, Nairobi, marked a significant milestone. Ten Junior Secondary School teachers participated in immersive, hands-on training sessions designed to integrate emerging technologies into classroom instruction.

The workshop was further elevated by a generous donation from BOE Technology, which provided 3D printers, robotic kits, and interactive display screens. These resources are set to revolutionize the teaching of robotics and AI in Kenyan schools, offering learners a dynamic and future-ready STEM experience.

Delivering opening remarks on behalf of KNATCOM Ag. Secretary-General/CEO, Dr. James Njogu, the Ag. Director of the Natural Sciences Programme, Dr. George Eshiamwata, emphasized the transformative power of STEM education and strategic partnerships. Dr. Njogu noted, “Through initiatives like Windows to STEM, we are giving teachers the tools and knowledge they need to inspire Africa’s next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.”

Also in attendance was Dr. Gladys Malonza, Nairobi County Quality Assurance and Standards Officer, representing the Regional Director of Education. She lauded BOE Technology’s investment in education and called for the programme’s expansion to benefit more schools nationwide.

KNATCOM’s leadership in this initiative underscores its commitment to bridging the digital divide, fostering innovation, and contributing meaningfully to SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure). Windows to STEM is a testament to what collaborative action can achieve in shaping the future of education in Kenya.

“Through initiatives like Windows to STEM, we are giving teachers the tools and knowledge they need to inspire Africa’s next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.”

John Doe

Ag. Secretary General/CEO - KNATCOM