Plan to instil values in learners rolled out
Education
By
Juliet Omelo
| Apr 03, 2026
KICD CEO Charles Ong'ondo during a past interview. [File, Standard]
The government has launched nationwide implementation of Values-Based Education, a programme designed to nurture ethical, responsible, and community-minded learners in line with the Competency-Based Curriculum.
The rollout follows a successful pilot across 19 counties involving 79 schools and over 3,000 learners.
The study, carried out by Mizizi Elimu Afrika in collaboration with the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD), explored how integrity, respect, unity, responsibility, patriotism, peace, and social justice can be embedded in classroom instruction, co-curricular activities, and school culture.
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“Today is a historic day for the education sector. The pilot has provided a clear roadmap for nurturing ethical learners across all schools in the country,” said KICD Chief Executive Officer Charles Ong’ondo.
The programme engaged teachers, learners, parents, and education officials to identify practical strategies for fostering values.
Findings showed that effective implementation requires a whole-school approach; teachers modelling values, learners practising them in classrooms and clubs, and parents and communities reinforcing them at home.
“If we produce professionals who lack values, we fail our country. This initiative ensures learners develop both knowledge and the moral compass to thrive as responsible citizens,” added Prof Ong’ondo.
Dr Frederick Haga from the Ministry of Education reaffirmed the government's commitment.
“Educating a child to embrace values requires collective effort. Parents, teachers, and communities must all participate,” he said.
The pilot demonstrated that schools where teachers consistently modelled values saw learners internalise ethical behaviour more effectively, creating positive, disciplined learning environments.
The Mizizi Foundation, which supported the pilot, helped refine teaching materials and methods for nationwide rollout.
Research from the study showed steady progress: initially, values were promoted through lesson plans, assemblies, and co-curricular activities, but application was uneven.
He noted that by the end of the pilot, schools had embedded values into daily routines, classroom instruction, and school culture, with learners demonstrating respect, collaboration, and responsibility.
“Teacher competence improved, though consistent assessment of values and parental engagement remain areas for further strengthening,” noted Ongo’ndo.
With the national rollout underway, KICD and the Ministry of Education will provide updated resources, teacher training, and continuous support to ensure every learner benefits.
Officials expressed optimism that the programme will not only enhance behaviour in schools but also strengthen societal values.
“We exist because people exist. If we cannot nurture ethical learners, we risk losing the essence of education. This rollout is our chance to build a strong foundation for Kenya’s future,” said the CEO.