“Advancing Africa-Led Education Research”
The official launch of the Research Chair in Life Skills and Values Education at Kenyatta University marked a significant milestone in the advancement of Africa-led education research, informing policy, strengthening practice and nurturing learners 
with the necessary skills and values to thrive in the 21stcentury. Established under the Harnessing Education Research for Impact in Africa (HERI Africa) initiative, the Research Chair will provide a platform for generating evidence to support curriculum innovation, teacher development and education policy, while also promoting holistic learner development. Prof. Mike Kuria, Chief Executive Officer of the Commission for University Education (CUE) and the chief Guest described the Research Chair as a timely and strategic initiative with the potential to transform education by embedding life skills and values within learning systems, and by strengthening evidence-based policy and practice. He emphasized that higher education must embrace practical, transformative research that responds to societal needs.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Wanjohi,
reaffirmed the university’s commitment to research excellence, innovation and community impact, Prof. Wanjohi delivered the Vice Chancellor’s speech describing the initiative as a landmark step in advancing Africa-led research that addresses the continent’s educational priorities and societal needs. The speech-Pointed out Kenyatta University’s robust research capabilities and its leadership in teacher education, reaffirming its preparedness to host the Research Chair and contribute to evidence-based educational reforms. He also emphasized the importance of building researchers’ capacity, strengthening life skills and values education, and fostering research that influences policy and practice. Professor Wacheke concluded by conveying the Vice-Chancellor’s gratitude to the Ministry of Education and HERI Africa partners for their ongoing support in driving transformative research in Africa.
Professor Jackline Nyerere, the HERI Africa Research Chair for Life Skills and Values Education at Kenyatta University, presented the research agenda, highlighting the need for evidence-based research to strengthen life skills and values education within Kenya’s competency-based education system.
She highlighted the importance of collaboration with the government, universities, schools, communities and development partners in order to advance policy and improve classroom practice. She noted that the initiative aims to equip learners with the competencies and values necessary for lifelong learning and responsible citizenship. Dr John Mugo, Executive Director of Mizizi Elimu Afrika and HERI Africa KU Co-Research Chair, talked about the importance of linking research with practice, and of promoting sustained investment in educational research, in order to influence policy and sustainable development across Africa.
The launch of the Research Chair in Life Skills and Values Education represents more than just the establishment of a research program. It demonstrates a collective commitment to ensuring that African research by africa drives African solutions. By fostering strategic partnerships, bolstering locally driven research, and translating evidence into action, the HERI Africa Research Chair will help to create inclusive, relevant, and future-ready education systems. Looking ahead, HERI Africa aims to mobilize long-term investment in African educational research, developing a generation of researchers whose work will directly influence policy, practice, and sustainable development. This will ensure that life skills and values education remain central to preparing learners for the opportunities and challenges of the 21st century.
