Meet Alex Munyua, an IT instructor at inABLE with a passion for transforming the futures of visually impaired students through technology. Alex has been teaching for six months at Thika Primary School for the Blind, where he empowers, mentors, and teaches vital computer skills to visually impaired students. 

New in the field and motivated by a desire to equip himself with the necessary knowledge and skills, Alex recently participated in a one-week training program on Special Needs Education and the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). “This training aimed to enhance my ability to effectively implement the CBC, ensuring that all learners, regardless of their abilities, are fully engaged in the learning process,” Alex, whose background is in information technology, shares. 

During the training, Alex delved into various topics, including the Basic Education Curriculum Framework, interpretation of curriculum designs, and differentiated assessment. Among the valuable insights gained, inclusive learning for special needs stood out. Alex emphasizes the importance of collaboration with parents to identify learners’ challenges and highlights disability etiquette as a personal virtue for everyone.  

“I plan to apply the knowledge and skills acquired in the training to enhance my teaching of computer skills to visually impaired students,” he says adding that he aspires to make learning enjoyable for his learners by promoting creativity and innovation through practical work – a basic tenet of CBC. Alongside the inABLE team, he commits to continuous follow-ups to ensure the progressiveness of computer skills even at the vocational level and beyond.  

Reflecting on his teaching approach, Alex plans to implement a more learner-based strategy, identifying and nurturing individual competencies during the learning process. He sees the shift to formative assessment, as advocated by the CBC, as an opportunity to focus on assessing learning rather than assessing the end product. 

“The CBC contributes significantly to creating a more inclusive learning environment for students with visual impairments. It believes that these learners can engage in the same learning activities as their sighted peers, necessitating adaptations such as Braille materials, appropriate font sizes, live experiences, and extra time for assessments,” Alex expounds. 

This training has played a pivotal role in Alex’s professional growth. It has set clear expectations, improved decision-making, and provided a reference resource for daily job requirements. Alex now has a deeper insight into the overall strategy of his team and organization, leading to greater engagement and motivation. 

Looking ahead, Alex aspires to participate in more training, seminars, and workshops, particularly in inclusive learning. In the ever-changing world of technology, he aims not only to instill core competencies in computing but also core values that will shape responsible and holistic individuals in society. To him, a learner is as good as the teacher, and continuous professional development is the key to a brighter future for both. 

By Lily Ronoh-Waweru (Multimedia Storyteller)