In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at revolutionizing education in Africa, the Global Peace Foundation Kenya, in collaboration with key educational and governmental partners, successfully convened the 3rd Transforming Education in the Global South Workshop. The two-day event, themed “Transforming Education: Cultivating Lifelong Character and Holistic Growth,” brought together educators and leaders dedicated to reshaping the educational landscape across the continent.
The workshop took place under the auspices of the Ministry of Education, Crawford International School, Sunrise Virtual School, Oracle Academy and UNICAF Kenya. With a focus on the African Union’s 2024 theme, “Educating an African Fit for the 21st Century,” participants were encouraged to critically reassess the role of education in shaping Africa’s future.
Central to the workshop’s discussions was the belief that true transformation must begin with educators themselves. By empowering these individuals and unlocking their potential, the workshop aimed to create a ripple effect that would ultimately benefit the students they guide. Participants engaged in a series of discussions that emphasized the importance of the African Renaissance and visualized a future where education is the foundation for nurturing a continent rich in moral and intellectual capital.
Key topics explored during the workshop included the foundation of character, the holistic development of both educators and students, and the necessity for moral and innovative leadership. The discussions culminated in the unveiling of the Transforming Education Blueprint, a strategic framework that outlines a 10-point agenda for national transformation through education. This blueprint is designed to align educational practices with broader societal goals, ensuring sustainable progress across regions.
A significant outcome of the workshop was the establishment of the Transforming Education support ecosystem, comprising a diverse consortium of 15 stakeholders. This coalition includes the Ministry of Education, Global Peace Foundation Kenya, Sunrise Virtual School, and several other educational institutions and organizations. Together, they represent a collective commitment to revolutionizing education through collaboration and shared vision.
Moreover, the workshop saw the formalization of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Global Peace Foundation Kenya and Sunrise Virtual School. This partnership aims to accelerate the global adoption of the Transforming Education Model by providing educators across Africa and beyond with access to Sunrise Virtual School’s comprehensive online training platform. Currently operational in 30 countries, this platform serves over 800 students in classrooms, with more than 5,000 students registered across varying time zones.
The workshop also marked the commencement of Phase 4 of the Transforming Education initiative, specifically targeting education policymakers, including officials from the Ministry of Education and regional directors. This phase aims to strengthen the policy foundation necessary for a systemic overhaul of education across the continent.
The event was well-attended by representatives from various educational institutions, including Regies School Runda, Kigwa Ridge School, State House Primary and Junior Secondary School, and several universities. It also saw participation from organizations such as the National Parents Association, Inter Religious Council of Kenya, and the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops, among others.
As Africa stands at a crossroads in its educational development, initiatives like the Transforming Education workshop serve as vital catalysts for change, laying the groundwork for a brighter future rooted in character, innovation, and holistic growth.
For more insights and media coverage of the event, visit here and here.