KNATCOM Champions National Effort to Foster Respect and Prevent School-Related Violence Through Teacher Education Training
From 12th to 14th November, the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO (KNATCOM), with support from UNESCO, convened a three-day workshop on Connect with Respect (CWR) training for teacher educators at Kenyatta University. This initiative underscores KNATCOM’s commitment to promoting safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environments across Kenya.
The workshop brought together education professionals from various departments within Kenyatta University’s School of Education, including the Centre for Teacher Professional Development and Excellence, Educational Psychology, Early Childhood and Special Needs Education, ICT, Educational Foundations, and Education Management, Policy and Curriculum Studies. The event was graced and officially opened by Professor Samson Ondigi, Dean of the School of Education.
Over the three days, participants engaged in intensive capacity-building sessions on the CWR methodology. The training equipped teacher educators with practical strategies to create classrooms that nurture empathy, non-violent conflict resolution, and gender-respectful interactions among learners. Through collaborative learning, group discussions, and hands-on activities, educators explored modules on communication skills, positive peer relationships, gender equality, school mapping of gender-based violence, help-seeking and peer support strategies, and approaches to preventing and responding to violence in school settings.
Facilitators emphasized the pivotal role of teacher educators in shaping classroom culture and modelling respectful behaviours that safeguard children’s wellbeing and holistic development. The CWR program aligns with Kenya’s national commitment to addressing school-related gender-based violence and fostering healthy relationships within education spaces.
The training reaffirmed a shared vision: building learning environments where every learner feels valued, protected, and empowered. By equipping teacher educators with tools to promote respect and prevent violence, KNATCOM is contributing to a culture of peace, empathy, and positive social behaviour within Kenya’s education system. These efforts lay a strong foundation for an education sector that not only counters harmful behaviours but also champions dignity, diversity, and national cohesion.
