Global Education Forum opens in Nairobi with focus on teachers, AI, and system reforms

More than 200 educationists are convening in Nairobi to discuss the future of teaching and education in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other technological advancements.

The three-day workshop, jointly organized by the Ministry of Education and the Aga Khan Foundation, brings together leading scholars from over 30 countries, along with participants including teachers, government officials, policymakers, human rights groups, development partners, and other stakeholders.

Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok officially opened the workshop, which focuses on exploring how teachers and schools can be meaningfully engaged in addressing complex learning and education challenges.

The PS expressed that Kenya is honoured to host this year’s event, which centres on reimagining the role of teachers as drivers of innovation, equity, and transformation in learning.

“Teachers are not just implementers of the curriculum; they are mentors, innovators, and trusted partners in transforming education systems,” he said.

He further stated that Kenya is committed to investing in teacher training, professional growth, and digital tools to ensure that no learner is left behind.

Prof Bitok used the occasion to highlight the ongoing education reforms in the country, including the piloting of the Kenya Education Management Information System (KEMIS), set to begin in July ahead of a full rollout in September.

“KEMIS marks a critical milestone in ensuring that data-driven decision-making becomes the cornerstone of education planning and service delivery in Kenya,” he noted.

KEMIS will replace the current NEMIS platform and consolidate student data across all learning levels—from Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) to university—into a singular integrated system.

The quest for reliable data is expected to facilitate accurate resource allocation, enhance transparency, and prevent the manipulation of capitation through ghost schools or inflated enrolments.

The system will also feature a mobile application to provide parents and stakeholders with real-time access to student and school data.

This year’s forum theme, “How Might Teachers and Schools Be the Partners of Choice in Solving Complex Learning and Education Challenges?”, places teachers at the centre of efforts to tackle climate change, conflict, digital disruption, inequality, and inclusion.

The PS added that the ongoing reforms include integrating climate resilience and disaster preparedness into teacher education, incorporating environmental sustainability into Curriculum-Based Education co-curricular activities, and providing special focus on marginalized learners, including girls and children with disabilities, among others.

The forum also coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Aga Khan Foundation’s work in Kenya and its collaborations in education, health, civil society, and rural development.