Wananchi Opinion: Is a Bachelor of Education still worth pursuing in Kenya today?

The question of whether a student should pursue a bachelor of education degree in Kenya continues to attract strong debate.

The education sector has undergone major reforms and the demand for teachers is not as predictable as it used to be. Despite this shift the degree remains valuable for learners who are intentional about their career plans.

The degree still offers a strong foundation in subject content, pedagogy and professional practice. What matters most today is how a graduate position himself or herself in a changing labour market and the ability to explore opportunities beyond the Teachers Service Commission.

A bachelor of education degree remains relevant because teaching is still a core public service. Kenya maintains a large and growing population of school going children and this naturally sustains the need for qualified educators.

Even though TSC recruitment has slowed down, there continues to be steady demand in private schools, international schools, online learning platforms and faith-based institutions. A graduate with strong classroom skills, creativity and adaptability can still build a meaningful career in the traditional school environment.

Beyond the classroom the degree supports many alternative career paths. One of the most promising is educational consultancy. Graduates can become curriculum developers, learning advisors or assessment specialists for private schools, county governments or non-governmental organisations.

The ongoing reforms in competency-based education have increased the need for experts who can interpret curriculum changes and train teachers. A graduate who understands learning processes and assessment strategies can take advantage of this space.

There is also growing demand for education technology skills. Many institutions are integrating digital learning tools, virtual classrooms and online tutoring programs. Graduates with training in digital content creation, online facilitation or instructional design can work with learning platforms, publishers and edtech companies.

These roles are not limited to Kenya because online learning has created a global marketplace where competent educators can teach students across borders.

Another major area is community development and social impact work. Organisations involved in youth empowerment, early childhood programs and community literacy projects need professionals who understand learning behaviour and child development.

A bachelor of education graduate can work as a program officer, trainer, researcher or field coordinator. These positions allow graduates to contribute to social wellbeing beyond classroom teaching.

Corporate training is another pathway that many people do not consider. Companies constantly need trainers to support staff development programs.

A graduate with strong communication skills and subject matter knowledge can train employees in soft skills, customer relations or leadership. This area rewards confidence, clarity and presentation skills that educators naturally develop.

There are also emerging careers in publishing and content development. Textbook publishers, media companies and online educational sites recruit graduates to write learning materials, edit content, review manuscripts and design study guides. A student who enjoys writing or content creation can build a long-term career in this field both locally and internationally.

Globally the opportunities are even wider. Many countries in the Middle East, Europe and Asia continue to hire teachers from Kenya because of their strong language skills and training background. International schools abroad also recruit Kenyan educators as subject teachers, early childhood instructors or special needs assistants.

Additionally, graduates can work as online tutors for students in the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia and Canada. This offers flexible income and exposure to global teaching methods.

A bachelor of education degree also provides a strong foundation for further studies. Graduates can specialise in fields such as psychology, counselling, educational administration, special needs education or linguistics.

These advanced qualifications open doors to universities, colleges, research institutions and government agencies. The ability to advance academically makes the degree a strategic starting point for long term professional growth.

Overall, the degree is still advisable for students who are passionate about teaching and willing to explore a broad range of career options. It remains a respected qualification with both local and international relevance.

The key is to combine the degree with additional skills, practical experience and openness to non-traditional paths.