Prof Nyerere Research Chair live skills and Values KU, Dr John Mugo Co research chair ED Mizizi Elimu Afrika receive their certificates from DVC Prof Wanjohi and Chief guest Dr Mike Kuria Commission of University Education./HANDOUT

A significant milestone in advancing Africa-led education research was marked as Kenyatta University officially launched the HERI Africa Research Chair on Life Skills and Values Education, strengthening the link between evidence, policy, and practice.

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The Research Chair, established under the Harnessing Education Research for Impact in Africa (HERI Africa) initiative, positions Kenyatta University as a regional hub for generating high-quality, policy-relevant research aimed at transforming education systems and supporting holistic learner development.

Speaking during the launch, university leadership emphasized that the initiative represents a shift from traditional academic models towards research that directly responds to societal needs.

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“This is not merely a ceremonial event. It is a declaration of our commitment to ensuring that research serves both the immediate and long-term needs of society,” noted Prof. Waceke Wanjohi, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, in remarks delivered on his behalf.

Dr. Mike Kuria, Chief Executive Officer of the Commission for University Education, highlighted the transformative potential of the initiative and called for a shift from rhetoric to results in African research.

“We must move beyond simply defining who we are, to producing excellent, impactful work that speaks for itself. When the results are strong, the world will take notice,” he said. He further underscored the critical role of life skills and values education in preparing learners for an increasingly complex and technology-driven world.

“One of the greatest challenges facing education today is how we prepare learners to remain fully human in the face of rapid technological advancement. This Research Chair is a critical step in addressing that challenge.”

The HERI Africa initiative was founded through a collaboration of African governments, universities, and research institutions, including Mizizi Elimu Afrika, with the goal of increasing Africa’s contribution to global research and ensuring that research outcomes translate into real-world impact.

As part of the launch, Professor Jackline Nyerere was formally recognized as the Research Chair in Life Skills and Values Education, while Dr. John Mugo, Executive Director of Mizizi Elimu Afrika, was named Co-Chair for Life Skills and Values Education under the HERI Africa initiative. This leadership structure highlights the collaborative and Africa-led approach driving the initiative forward.

The launch also introduced the Life Skills and Values Education Research Agenda under the ALiVE initiative, which seeks to strengthen competencies such as critical thinking, adaptability, collaboration, and ethical leadership among learners.

By anchoring research within African contexts and priorities, the HERI Africa Research Chair is expected to contribute to data-driven education reforms, strengthen research capacity, and support the development of learners equipped to thrive in both current and future environments.