The School of Education at Mount Kenya University held a transformative retreat from July 23–25, 2025, at Sagana Nokras Riverine Hotel. The goal: to reimagine the DIBEL model (formerly the School-Based Programme) and align it with emerging needs in teacher education.
Led by Dr. Mercyline Kamande (Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic and Research Affairs), Dr. Ronald Maathai (Registrar, Academic Administration ), and Dr. Benson Njoroge (Dean, School of Education), the retreat brought together coordinators from all campuses and ODEL centres to refine academic delivery, strengthen practical training, and integrate innovation into teaching practice.
A major reform will see teacher trainees begin school practice in their second year, followed by a final-semester teaching practice—providing more time in real classrooms and bridging theory with hands-on experience. In parallel, examination standards will be modernized with digital tools and integrity-focused assessments, as championed by Director of Examinations, Peter Chacha.
Participants also reviewed readiness for Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) integration, emphasizing the university’s role in shaping adaptable, 21st-century teachers.
Dr. Kamande praised the school’s leadership and spirit of collaboration, noting, “We are not just looking at today’s needs; we are shaping tomorrow’s solutions.” The Vice Chancellor lauded the School for leading in enrollment and quality, while a Council Member pledged continued support for teacher training excellence.
The Vice‑Chancellor commended the School for “posting the highest enrolment numbers and embodying the university’s mission of producing all‑rounded teachers.” In turn, the Council Member offered more than congratulations—he pledged unwavering support, affirming the Board’s resolve to ensure the School of Education continues to produce the finest teachers in the country.
The verdict was clear: the DIBEL model is not simply being refined—it is being reimagined, setting a benchmark of excellence that will resonate across Kenya and beyond, ensuring that every graduate is not merely a teacher, but a beacon of transformation
The retreat marked not just a review, but a bold reimagining of the DIBEL model—laying the groundwork for a future-ready teacher education program that sets national benchmarks.
Article by Makau wa Mutua