吃瓜头条 has reaffirmed its leadership in teacher education through a retooling programme for teacher mentors focused on strengthening Competency-Based Education (CBE) assessment and mentorship. Held at the Main Campus Amphitheatre under the theme, Empowering Teacher Mentors for Effective Guidance and Professional Growth of Student Teachers in the Competency-Based Era, the programme brought together education leaders, teacher mentors and key stakeholders committed to enhancing the quality of teacher preparation.
Speaking on behalf of Ag. VC, Prof. John Okumu, DVC, Research, Innovation and Outreach, Prof. Caroline Thoruwa underscored the transformative role of mentorship in shaping future educators. She noted that while teachers influence classrooms, mentors shape generations, emphasising that quality teacher education is a shared responsibility. She further highlighted the University’s unique two phase teaching practicum model, which equips student teachers with practical experience while bridging the gap between academic theory and classroom practice.
The University’s commitment to academic excellence was further reinforced through remarks delivered on behalf of the Registrar Academic and the Executive Dean School of Education and Lifelong Learning, encouraging mentors to utilise the training to nurture competent, ethical and confident educators capable of meeting the demands of the Competency-Based Curriculum.
Director, Teaching Practicum and Field Experience, Dr Caroline Mutwiri, shared the impact of structured mentorship, noting that student teachers supported by trained mentors consistently demonstrate stronger classroom performance and faster professional growth. She revealed that the University has trained and deployed more than 1,300 teacher mentors across senior schools nationwide, strengthening support for student teachers during teaching practice.
Delivering the keynote address, Chief Guest Dr Reuben Nthamburi, Director of Teacher Professional Management at TSC, challenged mentors to embrace their pivotal role in preparing the first cohort of learners transitioning to senior school under CBE. He emphasised adherence to professional ethics, integrity, confidentiality, fairness and learner centred practice, while encouraging mentors to create supportive learning environments that inspire confidence and continuous improvement.
Dr Nthamburi further identified formative assessment, critical thinking, ICT integration and effective classroom practice as the key areas mentors should cultivate among student teachers. He concluded by encouraging participants to embrace the three Cs of successful mentorship, Compassion, Commitment and Connection, as the foundation for meaningful professional relationships.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Michael Katola, who applauded the dedication of teacher mentors and reaffirmed the University’s commitment to producing competent, future ready educators who will advance quality education in Kenya.