Early Thursday morning at CEMASTEA Karen, education leaders, partners and stakeholders gathered over breakfast for a conversation that will shape the future of learning in Kenya. The Pre Conference Partners Breakfast Meeting, convened by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with the Council of Governors and development partners, marked the beginning of a national journey toward the launch of the National Foundational Learning Guidelines set for March 2026 in Mombasa.
Among the voices at the table was KEWOTA CEO Benter Opande, representing thousands of women teachers across the country. Her presence was a reminder that the success of foundational learning in Kenya rests heavily on the experience, dedication and everyday realities of women teachers.
From early childhood classrooms to lower primary schools, women teachers are often the first mentors children encounter outside the home, shaping literacy, numeracy, confidence and emotional wellbeing at the most critical stages of development.
At the breakfast meeting, KEWOTA emphasized that women teachers bring unique and practical insights drawn from daily interactions with learners, families and communities. Their understanding of children’s social and emotional needs, learning environments and family dynamics makes them essential partners in designing and implementing the new national guidelines.
KEWOTA experience aligns with national goals
The meeting outlined the objectives and thematic areas of the upcoming Foundational Learning Conference and explored partnerships to support implementation of the new guidelines. KEWOTA participation stood out because the organization has already been working in areas closely aligned with the conference goals.
Through its programs and partnerships, KEWOTA has consistently advanced the welfare, empowerment and professional growth of teachers, especially women. Initiatives such as digital literacy and AI training for teachers, access to laptops and water tanks, mental health advocacy through the 10,000 Steps for My Teacher initiative, table banking, insurance and breastfeeding centers demonstrate a holistic approach to supporting educators.
These programs recognise that when teachers are empowered, learners thrive.
By investing in teachers’ wellbeing, digital skills and financial stability, KEWOTA has helped create environments where educators can focus on delivering quality foundational learning, the very outcome the new national guidelines seek to achieve.
Building partnerships for a stronger future
Stakeholders discussed progress in strengthening foundational learning and explored ways partners can contribute to the upcoming conference and the long term implementation of the guidelines.
KEWOTA is committed to working with like-minded organisations, government institutions and development partners to strengthen education in Kenya.
KEWOTA has always stood by the belief that meaningful change happens when teachers’ voices are included in decision-making.
Looking ahead to Mombasa
The upcoming launch of the National Foundational Learning Guidelines represents a major milestone in ensuring every child acquires strong literacy, numeracy and social emotional skills from the earliest years.
The KEWOTA Executive has pledged full support for the conference, stating that for KEWOTA, it is an opportunity to help shape the future of education in Kenya.
Partners and stakeholders interested in collaborating with KEWOTA can reach out via info@kewota.co.ke to join the journey toward stronger foundational learning and empowered educators.