Kenya’s PE teachers get NBA training

The training, which included both classroom and on-court sessions, aimed to equip educators with basketball fundamentals, inclusive coaching techniques, and ways to integrate life skills such as teamwork, resilience, and leadership into sports. The Kenya Red Cross also collaborated in delivering modules on health awareness and social responsibility.

While the initiative is part of a broader effort to use sport as a tool for youth development, questions remain about whether Kenya’s schools are prepared to implement these lessons beyond a one-day workshop. Many public schools, particularly outside Nairobi, lack basic facilities such as basketball courts, balls, or even consistent PE periods.

“It’s great to be trained, but some of my schools don’t have courts or enough equipment to practice what we learned,” said one teacher who attended the event. “We might need follow-up support and resources if this program is to have a lasting impact.”

The program also emphasises inclusion, aiming to integrate students with disabilities through adaptive coaching. However, advocates point out that accessibility remains a major challenge in most Kenyan schools. 

“Training teachers is only one part of the equation,” said a disability sports expert. “Without infrastructure and proper equipment, inclusive sports remain aspirational.”

The Basketball Experience program reflects growing interest from international organisations in supporting youth development through sport. Yet analysts warn that without investment in school infrastructure, teacher follow-up, and broader accessibility, such initiatives risk becoming short-lived pilot programs rather than systemic change agents.

As Kenya continues to expand youth-focused sports initiatives, the question remains whether training workshops in Nairobi will translate into tangible benefits for students nationwide, particularly in rural and underserved areas.