Kenyan Delegation Learns About Nova Scotia's Education System

A delegation of senior education officials from Kenya is in Nova Scotia this week gathering information about the province's education system.

Kenya is in the process of reforming its education system and is looking at Nova Scotia as a model.

"Nova Scotia has a long and proud tradition of educational excellence," said Education Minister Ramona Jennex. "Our education system is respected worldwide for its dynamic, research-based curriculum, instruction, and assessment."

Since their arrival on Monday, March 14, the 9-member group has met with Department of Education staff for presentations and discussions about the school system and how public education operates at the provincial, school board and school levels. The delegation also discussed the department's structure, curriculum development, labour relations, technology and teacher certification.

"A good education allows everyone to realize their true human potential," said James Ole Kiyiapi, permanent secretary, Kenyan Ministry of Education.

"Nova Scotia's education system is student-centred which is something that appeals to us. We have learned a lot during our visit about how Nova Scotia's education system is put together, from the department down through the to school boards and on to students. We knew it was going to be good but it has far exceeded our expectations. We are having an amazing time."

This is the second visit of its kind to take place within the past year. Last September, the Kenyan High Commissioner to Canada, Simon Nabukwesi, toured the Strait Regional School Board and met with Department of Education administrators. That paved the way for the current visit.

In addition to learning about models of governance for public education, the delegation is visiting a number of educational facilities, including Strait Regional School Board Teacher Resource Centre, schools, the waterfront campus of the Nova Scotia Community College and St. Francis Xavier University.

It is hoped the visit will forge bonds of collaboration between Nova Scotia and Kenya as both jurisdictions undertake education initiatives and reforms.