The Department of Medical Microbiology (MMB) at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) is in the midst of a significant overhaul of its undergraduate and postgraduate curricula, a process in line with the Commission for University Education (CUE) guidelines, which require that academic programs undergo a comprehensive review every four years. This initiative, aimed at aligning the programs with contemporary academic and global health needs, is critical to ensuring the university remains at the forefront of training professionals who can respond to emerging health challenges.
The ongoing review, led by a team of experienced academics, including industry professionals and alumni, is designed to refine the curriculum, ensuring that it is both relevant and forward-thinking. According to Dr. Edinah Song’oro, Chairperson of the MMB Department, the goal is to develop well-rounded microbiologists who are prepared to contribute to Kenya’s and the world’s health priorities. “The revised curriculum will align with Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) principles and is expected to be rolled out in the next academic year, pending approval by relevant authorities,” Dr. Song’oro explained.
Dr. Amos Mbugua, Chairman of Medical Lab Sciences at JKUAT, emphasized the importance of adapting education to meet new realities, stating, “Curriculum review is not just a formality. It is a chance to reflect, refine, and future-proof our training to address global challenges like climate change and Artificial Intelligence (AI).” His remarks underscore the dynamic nature of the learning process, suggesting that the curriculum must evolve to meet the demands of the times.
This sentiment was echoed by the keynote speaker at the curriculum review workshop, Professor Paul Okemo of Kenyatta University. Prof. Okemo stressed the importance of keeping academic content current, noting, “A lot can change in four years. Our postgraduate programs, especially, must mirror ongoing developments. We must embrace AI to enhance training in areas like genetic engineering and embed microbiology knowledge in other disciplines such as food science and environmental studies.”
The curriculum revision is also geared towards practical, real-world applications. Dr. Maira Bholla, Chair of the Society for Professional Research in Biomedical Sciences, pointed out the importance of aligning academic training with hands-on experience. “It is important that any curriculum review recognizes and reinforces the value of technical personnel who work tirelessly behind the scenes,” she remarked. Dr. Bholla’s focus on the contributions of biomedical technologists and laboratory scientists is particularly pertinent, given their critical role in responding to public health emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Furthermore, the ongoing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) stresses the need for a curriculum that equips students with the necessary skills to respond to emerging infectious diseases. Dr. Ali Kassam, a Clinical Microbiologist at Aga Khan Hospital, highlighted this issue, stating, “Students must be equipped with surveillance skills and ready to respond to emerging infectious diseases.” This calls for an updated curriculum that not only includes the latest scientific advancements but also prepares students to deal with real-world health crises.
As JKUAT continues with its curriculum review process, it is important to note that this initiative aligns with the guidelines set forth by the CUE, which emphasizes the importance of regularly updating academic programs to remain relevant in a rapidly changing world. This commitment to review and revision ensures that JKUAT’s medical microbiology program is not only compliant with national standards but also addresses global health priorities.
With the revised curriculum expected to be implemented in the next academic year, JKUAT’s approach is hoping to create a model for other institutions in Kenya and beyond. As Dr. Song’oro aptly stated, “We are shaping the next generation of health professionals who will play a key role in tackling both current and future health challenges, locally and globally.” The focus on AI, interdisciplinary knowledge, and real-world applications ensures that graduates are well-prepared to face the complexities of modern healthcare.
Source : JKUAT News