By Dorothy Musyoka
Kenyatta University played host to the Leadership for Education for Sustainable Development (LEAD-ESD) Regional Inception Workshop from 16th to 18th June 2025 at the Kenyatta University Conference Centre in Nairobi, Kenya.
Speaking during the Official opening of the workshop, Prof. Paul Wainana, Vice Chancellor of Kenyatta University highlighted the need for the LEAD-ESD project.
“LEAD-ESD seeks to build the capacity of policymakers in education for sustainable development, aiming to create a lasting impact on institutions and communities by imparting knowledge, skills, and the right attitudes necessary to address sustainability challenges effectively,” stated Prof. Wainaina.
Mr. Darius Mogaka, representing Mr. Julius Migos Ogamba, Cabinet Secretary for Education, affirmed the Ministry’s support.
“The program aims to strengthen the implementation of SDG 4 by promoting the integration of sustainable development into learning institutions. It emphasizes that sustainability is not only a scholarly agenda but also a personal responsibility,” stated Dr. Mogaka.
By positioning education at the center of SDG implementation, the project highlights the crucial role education plays in achieving all Sustainable Development Goals, marking a significant milestone in advancing the sustainability agenda,” he added.
The regional initiative implemented in collaboration with UNESCO, UNICEF, and other development partners serves as a platform to operationalize SDG 4 (Quality Education) with a focus on the broader sustainability agenda.
Dr. Charles Chikunda, from the UNESCO Harare Office, called for mindset transformation in education systems.
“To achieve the SDGs, we must embrace change and adapt continuously, as failing to do so risks being left behind. Shifting our mindset is essential, and this begins with equipping students with skills that foster creativity, opportunity creation, and active engagement through participatory methodologies,” noted Dr. Chikunda.
Kenyatta University’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Waceke Wanjohi, reaffirmed the institution’s support towards the project.
“We assure you of our unwavering commitment and full support for this important project, which is set to play a pivotal role in greening our curriculum and instilling in students the right attitudes and values toward natural resources,” Prof. Waceke Wanjohi.
Mr. Mamadou Lamine-Sow, representing Ms. Louise Haxthausen of UNESCO’s Regional Office for Eastern Africa, underscored the project’s youth-centred focus.
As the LEAD-ESD project takes off, the Regional Inception Workshop marks a significant milestone in rethinking education’s role in shaping a sustainable future.
The workshop brought together regional and international education stakeholders to kickstart a transformative agenda aimed at embedding sustainability into learning systems across Africa.