International Baccalaureate Mission to Empower Students in Kenya with a New Future-Proof Curriculum

The International Baccalaureate (IB), a global leader in international education, is set to revolutionize the learning landscape in Kenya by conducting a comprehensive, multi-year, community-driven and collaborative review of its programmes targeted at students aged 16 and over (16+ review). This groundbreaking initiative aims to provide a transformative education that empowers the organisation’s diverse community to contribute to a more peaceful and sustainable world while preparing young people to flourish individually, with others and with the shared planet.

The IB believes in the importance of a collaborative environment to foster excellence education, and this holistic programme level review will embrace a wider IB community, from students and alumni to educators and staff. The purpose is to make IB programmes, subjects and assessments more flexible, future-oriented and responsive to school and student contexts by placing choice, well-being and real-world relevance at their core. continuous evaluationof the curriculum, the IB is set to rethink education and design transformative experiences for students.

IB programmes have been offered in the country for over 40 years with a current presence in 11 Kenyan Schools such as the MPESA Foundation Academy, Aga Khan Academy, the Nairobi Academy among other key schools across the region. IB intends to develop future-ready students by molding them into critical thinkers, courageous risk-takers and empathetic human beings in an environment that prioritizes their well-being. To date, renowned personalities and global leaders from a broad range of disciplines have studied in IB schools in Kenya, where IB methodologies have provided them with lifelong opportunities and the sense of purpose they need to thrive throughout their lives and contribute to making the world a better place.

Fidelis Nthenge, Director of Curriculum Development expressed her excitement about the review of the curriculum, stating, “We believe that by reviewing and creating a future-oriented curriculum, we are equipping our students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving global job market. The initiative will empower them to be adaptive, innovative, and ethical global citizens ready to contribute to the world around them.”

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology continues to generate significant interest and discussion globally, IB is aware of the fundamental need to adapt and transform its educational programmes and assessment practices so that students and teachers can use these new AI tools ethically and effectively. While AI technology, including ChatGPT, offers significant advancements in various fields, the IB underscores the importance of working with schools and educators to support students with the ethical implications of using AI tools inside classrooms.

International Baccalaureate’s integration of AI into their programmes in Kenya marks a significant milestone in the future of innovative education. By embracing AI technology, IB is reinforcing its commitment to preparing students for the future, fostering critical thinking, personalization, collaboration, and creativity. Through this initiative, IB aims to empower Kenyan students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in a volatile world.

Recognizing the challenges and opportunities presented by a fast-paced world, the IB is committed to equipping students with the necessary skills and competencies to succeed in the 21st century. IB’s continuous curriculum evaluation and its adaptation to new innovative technologies, represents a global and transformative impact for both students and teachers alike as it fosters seamless accommodation of the changing times. It is equally in line with Kenya’s Vision 2030 intent to provide globally competitive quality education for development.

As IB continues to evolve alongside technological advancements and changing global landscapes, it remains steadfast in its mission to empower students to become well-rounded individuals who contribute positively to society. By continuously promoting IB’s educational programmes and their impact, the organization seeks to inspire students, educators, and communities worldwide to embrace a holistic education that prepares young people for a future full of possibilities.