By Clotilda Nyongesa

CEMASTEA, operating under the auspices of Ministry of Education, stands as a beacon of innovation and collaboration in pedagogical advancement.

Tasked with researching and training teachers in pedagogical content knowledge, CEMASTEA's reach extends far beyond national borders, striving to enhance the skill sets of National Trainers on a global scale. At the heart of this endeavor lies a pivotal partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the visionary founders of the Strengthening, Mathematics, and Science Education (SMASE) program implemented by CEMASTEA.

 JICA's commitment to capacity building has been instrumental in empowering national trainers, both in Kenya and through immersive experiences in Japan. Central to this collaboration is the Knowledge Co-Creation Programme (KCCP), that focuses on mutual learning fostering reciprocal relationships between developed and developing nations. This ethos of shared knowledge and growth was exemplified in the recent KCCP session held from October to November, 2023. Drawing participation from ten diverse countries including Egypt, Malawi, Kenya, Southern Sudan, Mongolia, the Philippines, Jamaica, Bangladesh and Palestine, the program facilitated vibrant exchanges on formative assessment practices. Participants were immersed in discussions and field visits to Japanese classrooms, gaining invaluable insights into the dynamic educational landscape of Japan.

A highlight of the experience was the exploration of "MITORI," a base of Japanese educational practice. MITORI typif     ies a learner-centered approach, nurturing critical thinking skills by empowering teachers to discern and interpret the slightest cues from learners during the learning process. This nuanced understanding informs instructional decisions, driving meaningful progress towards lesson objectives. During our experience, we explored ‘MITORI,’ a fundamental aspect of Japanese educational practice. MITORI embodies a learner-focused approach, where teachers empower learners holistically, by carefully observing and interpreting the slightest cues from learners throughout the learning journey. This deep understanding guides instructional choices, leading to meaningful progress in achieving the learning outcomes. 

Building on these invaluable insights, CEMASTEA has embarked on a transformative journey to tailor content for nationwide teacher training initiatives. This initiative places a strong emphasis on pedagogical content knowledge especially learner- centered practices, aligning with the implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) at the Junior School (JS) level, as guided by the Basic Education Curriculum Framework (BECF). Recognizing the pivotal role of highly knowledgeable and reflective teachers in effectively delivering the curriculum. 

CEMASTEA’s tailored modules are thoughtfully designed to address the specific challenges faced by Junior School teachers. The training model typically follows a smart cascade, complemented by monitoring support and continuous learning. This approach ensures the practicability and effectiveness of the training materials within the classroom context, creating an environment conducive to learner success and holistic growth. 

As CEMASTEA continues to pioneer innovative approaches to teacher development, its partnership with JICA serves as a beacon of collaboration and excellence, transcending borders to empower educators and nurture the next generation of global citizens.