Academic Conference: Decolonizing Education

The Department of Educational Foundations in Conjunction with Manchester University and Racial Justice Network (UK) hosted a one day academic conference themed “Decolonizing Education”. The Conference was held on Thursday January 16, 2020 at the School of Education, Kikuyu Campus. The convenor of the Conference; Chairman, Department of Educational Foundations, Mr. Isaac Muasya introduced participants from the University of Nairobi, Racial Justice Network, Holistic Educators in Africa and Disapora (HEAD), Children in Freedom School and Alliance Girls High School.  

Mr. Muasya also shared the main objectives of the Conference which were:

1. To make deliberations on decolonization of education in Kenya.
2. To develop modalities for creating a partnership between the Racial Justice Network of UK and School of Education through the Department of Educational Foundations.
3. To develop a Framework that will guide decolonization of education and activism in Kenya right from high School to the workplace.

The Conference was organized into three panels to discuss the following topics;

1. Colonial Legacies and decolonial Futures
2. Alternative education
3. Moving toward decolonial futures

Speaking at the Official opening ceremony, the College principal; Prof. Jumba gave a detailed historical perspective of the Education system in Kenya since Independence to the current uptake of the Competency Based Curriculum. The College has actively organized seminars, research week and academic talks more so to provide a platform to explore opportunities for curriculum transformation, create international linkages and collaborations with local and international organizations.

During the conference; over 10 speakers made a presentation, a keynote address by Dr. Remi Joseph-Salisbury from Manchester University and poetry by students from Alliance Girls High School

Topics Covered:

1. Decolonization Of Moral Education And Sustainable Development – Prof. Lucy W Kibera
2. Decolonization Of Education In Kenya: Implications For Policy Planners – Dr. Caleb Mackatiani
3. The Benefits Of Decolonization Of Education - Isaac Muasya
4. Racism And Colonial Legacies In UK Education And Beyond Remi Joseph-Salisbury
5. Community African History Classes in the UK (Kwame Gad)
6. Home Schooling in Kenya – Adirah
7. Insights on Afrocentric Education from Nakuru School - Stephen Omanga
8. Activist-Propelled Alternative Education For Sustainable African Development -Dr Kili K’odhiambo
9. Feedback from Decolonize Education Workshops -Sharon Anyiam
10. Decolonizing Social Studies In Kenya: Future Prospects And Challenges  -Martin N. Wasike
11. Reconstruction of education in Africa with an African philosophy -Dr Joseph Mwinzi