Daystar University in Partnership with JAMK University of Applied Science in Finland hosts a 3-day Professional Development Training at the Nairobi Campus.

By Timothy Oiro

[Nairobi: August 7, 2025] Sixteen faculty members representing Schools, Directorates and Management attended a pedagogy training at the Nairobi Campus from August 4 - 6, 2025. 

Among the participants was the DVC Academic, Research and Student Affairs Prof. Samuel Muriithi, and the DVC Finance, Administration and Planning Prof. Muturi Wachira.

The training which was spearheaded by the Directorate of Academic Affairs was facilitated by Dr. Elia Burns and Dr. Hanna Laitinen from Finland’s renowned JAMK University of Applied Sciences.

This training is part of a relationship journey between Daystar University and JAMK University, that dates back to 2022 when the two institutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)  to enable training of Daystar University faculty in competency based education.  This will prepare the University for the adoption of the new Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) in Kenya.

Setting the tone for the training, the Acting DVC- ARSA, Prof. Samuel Muriithi said the partnership began four years ago when both institutions signed an MOU to facilitate Faculty training, establishing an institute for curriculum-based learning that would certify consultants and champions in modern teaching methods such as Problem-Based Learning (PBL).  

On his part, the DVC FAP Prof. Muturi Wachira expressed his joy in being part of the training, “We are here eager to learn, and we are committed to this process,” he said.

The trainer, Dr. Elia Burns kicked off the sessions by diving into the concept of "learner-centered" teaching before organizing attendees into small groups of four individuals to discuss what makes a good university teacher.

Responses emerging from the discussion included: A great teacher is approachable, knowledgeable, and competent. 

Dr. Burns shared that at JAMK, lecturers are expected to be skilled not just in teaching but also in guiding diverse learners and fostering collaboration.

Later, Dr. Hanna Laitinen diverted the conversations to Competency Based Education. 

Again, through group discussions, the participants agreed that the term "competency" denotes the ability to apply skills and knowledge effectively in a real-world setting. The training highlighted that the modern teaching approach connects students directly to industry needs, empowering them to take control of their learning and develop critical thinking.

Towards the end of the first day, the team explored various learning theories, from behaviorism (learning through changed behavior) to humanism (learning as a process of personal growth).

The second day began with a moment of reflection in which the ODeL Deputy Director, Dr. Martin Munyao, shared a devotion from Psalms 119:99, cultivating thoughts among the attendees on what happens when a learner’s understanding exceeds that of the teacher.

The day's sessions focused on practical approaches. The Coordinator of PBL and Collaborative Programmes, Rev. Dr. Peter Maurice Mutua, gave a summary of Problem-Based Learning (PBL), a method used by Daystar University to help students research and develop solutions for real-world problems.

Dr. Hanna Laitinen then guided the teams through a discussion on contemporary methods in learning, such as flipped learning, collaborative learning, and inquiry-based learning. A key takeaway from the day was a practical five-step guide which entailed designing effective learning sessions, covering everything from setting goals, structuring the process, to choosing materials and evaluating outcomes.

On the final day, Dr. Laitinen focused on the crucial topic of diversity in learning. She explained that creating an inclusive environment means understanding and supporting every student's right to learn, considering factors like special needs, marginalized backgrounds, and different learning capabilities. The principles of adult learning were also covered, recognizing that adult learners bring valuable prior experience and a readiness to learn that can be harnessed for success.

As the three-day training came to an end, Prof. Muriithi thanked the trainers from JAMK University, with Prof. Muturi Wachira echoing his sentiments: “This has been a very good learning experience.”

The Daystar University team will travel to Finland on 30th August for the next phase of the exciting training journey. 

The trained members are expected to be instrumental in reaching out to schools and institutions higher learning to empower teachers and lecturers in in pedagogy.