DEB Kangaru’s ArtLab to elevate CBC education

BY RITA MUTHONI

Education stakeholders have established a creative arts and research laboratory at DEB Kangaru Primary School in Embu County to enhance and support the implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).

The newly opened ArtLab will serve as a research and teacher professional development hub. It will also provide much-needed resources and facilities for learners.

Addressing the press after launching the laboratory, the University of Embu Vice-Chancellor, Professor Daniel Mugendi, emphasized the importance of nurturing creativity and innovation from a young age.

“Integrating creative arts into the curriculum will enable a better understanding of other subjects for our students, shape their future, and empower individuals to reach their full potential,” Mugendi said.

He added, “No stage is more critical in this journey than the formative years of schooling. Research has shown that exposure to arts at a young age enhances cognitive development and fosters social and emotional development, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.”

Mugendi said in 2019, the University signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the school as a platform for mentorship.

“In 2022, the University also established an MOU with Catalyst Research and Development to develop the ArtLab which will build teacher capacity to promote creativity, critical thinking, and positive identity development in learners. It will also focus on the study of child development in African content,” he added.

Catalyst Research and Development founder Dr. Sonia James-Wilson emphasized the need to consistently support schools to develop the infrastructures required to implement the CBC curriculum.

“The curriculum is asking teachers to do all the things children need and deserve, but it is hard for educators to be successful without the support of materials, and expert role models,” she said.

The launch of the ArtLab was met with enthusiasm by Kangaru Primary School head teacher Rachael Nyokabi, who said it would assist in improving the school’s general performance.

The ArtLab is a collaborative effort between the University of Embu, DEB Kangaru Primary School, and Catalyst Research and Development.

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