NAIROBI: September 27th, 2024
Nairobi County’s Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) Section in collaboration with Ollin Sacco, successfully marked the completion of a two-day workshop for ECDE teachers held at Lavington Primary School.
The Drama and Film Workshop Comprehensively trained on Stage performance, Scripting for Early Childhood Development and Film Production techniques, with the aim of equipping educators and film makers with skills to create age appropriate scripts and produce films tailored for young children.
The Director City Education, Ruth Owuor, emphasized on the workshop’s critical role in nurturing Gen Alpha, the next generation of learners through the use of drama and film. Teachers were trained on using film as a medium for children to express themselves, share stories, and build confidence.
“This is not just about drama and film; it’s about embedding values into the core of our education system. Through arts and creativity, we are raising children who will think critically, act with integrity, and grow into responsible citizens,” Owuor stated.
Mr. Shaban Muyendo, National Adjudicator and Facilitator took the participants through fundamentals of writing scripts for stage(drama), this includes character development, story structure, dialogue and scene composition. He also familiarized them on genre and style, formatting and structure, Directing and staging they were also taken through practical sessions by performing different types of genres on stage.
The 250 teachers underwent training in the use of drama, music, and creative arts, documentary creation and filmmaking techniques, mastering the operation of cameras, sound systems, and lighting equipment. They delved into visual storytelling, from scripting to editing enabling them to creatively integrate film into their lessons.
This approach empowers educators to use film as a dynamic tool that not only engages students but also encourages critical thinking and creativity. By encouraging self-expression through film, teachers enhance learning experiences while instilling essential values such as respect, responsibility, peace, unity, and love, nurturing a generation of future citizens who uphold integrity and social justice.
Rose Ego and Eunice Nding’o from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) delivered a strong message on the importance of financial transparency and accountability in education. Rose urged teachers to declare their income, assets, and liabilities, stressing that this practice is essential for maintaining trust and integrity in their profession. “As educators, you must uphold the highest ethical standards,” she stated. “Resist any temptation to misuse funds or accept bribes, as these actions directly undermine the quality of education and deprive children of the resources meant for their growth.”
Ollin Sacco, a major partner and the sponsors of the program, contributed significantly to both the artistic and improving the financial literacy for the teachers.
Mr. Michael Nyang’au, the Film Coordinator at Ainsworth Primary School, was instrumental in guiding teachers on how to incorporate film into their curriculum. Leveraging his extensive expertise in filmmaking and education, he provided comprehensive training on the effective use of cameras, sound equipment, and editing software.
Ms. Owuor said the workshop did not only focus on teachers but also raised awareness among parents, emphasizing their critical role in the development of their children’s character. Parents were encouraged to engage actively in their child’s education process, partnering with teachers to reinforce the values taught in school at home.
In attendance were Rosalia Ndambuki, Assistant Director School Health and Development, Co-curricular Activities, Susan Mutemi, Principal Education Officer, and Education Officers from the 17 sub counties.
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