Laikipia University has taken another significant step towards strengthening its preparedness for the transition to Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) following a two-day staff training workshop held on 1st and 2nd September 2026 at the Vision 2030 Hall, Main Campus.
The training brought together academic staff for an intensive retooling session aimed at enhancing institutional capacity in preparation for the 2029 cohort of CBET-compliant learners. The workshop focused on equipping staff with the knowledge and practical skills required to effectively design, deliver and assess learning within a competency-based education framework.
The workshop was officially opened by Prof. Isaac Kingori, who welcomed participants and underscored the importance of preparing the University community for the evolving demands of higher education.
Prof. Kingori introduced the Registrar, Academic Affairs, Prof. Robert Mwebi, who conveyed the apologies and greetings of the Vice Chancellor and the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic, Research and Student Affairs (ARSA), who were unable to attend the staff retooling workshop. He noted the importance of the training in ensuring that the University is adequately prepared for the implementation of CBET and the successful transition of future cohorts.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor, Finance and Administration (AFD), Prof. Patience Mshenga, also addressed the participants, reflecting on Laikipia University's journey towards CBET and the institutional commitment required to make the transition successful. Her remarks highlighted the need for the University to view CBET not simply as a change in curriculum structure, but as an opportunity to strengthen teaching, learning and graduate preparedness.
The training was facilitated by Prof. Suleiman Mwangi, who served as the main speaker throughout the workshop. His sessions provided participants with practical insights into the foundations and application of CBET, while encouraging academic staff to rethink how competencies are developed, taught and assessed.
Among the key areas covered during the training were understanding CBET in higher education; designing and reviewing CBET curricula; developing measurable Programme Learning Outcomes (PLOs) and Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs); aligning learning outcomes with teaching, learning and assessment; and developing and applying competency-based assessment tools and rubrics.
Participants were also introduced to the importance of constructive alignment—ensuring that competencies, learning outcomes, teaching approaches, learning activities and assessment methods work together towards clearly defined educational outcomes.
Particular emphasis was placed on the need to define profession-specific competencies and integrate them effectively into curriculum design. This approach is intended to ensure that graduates are not only equipped with theoretical knowledge, but can also demonstrate the practical skills, abilities and attitudes required in their respective professional environments.
The training further highlighted the importance of work-based learning and stronger industry engagement, reflecting the growing need for universities to produce graduates whose competencies are responsive to the expectations of employers and the wider world of work.
With the transition towards CBET continuing to shape the higher education landscape, the two-day workshop provided an important platform for academic staff to engage, learn and reflect on their role in the University's preparedness for the 2029 cohort.
The retooling exercise reinforces Laikipia University's commitment to continuous staff development, quality teaching and learning, industry-aligned training and the production of competent graduates.
As the University continues its journey towards CBET, the training marked not merely a preparation for a new cohort, but another step in the broader institutional commitment to nurturing and transforming learners for the world.
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