Kabarak University, in collaboration with the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO, proudly hosted a historic 25th-anniversary conference and celebration of International Mother Language Day at the University's Bethel Auditorium. This milestone reflects the university's commitment to cultural diversity and the preservation of indigenous languages, aligning with its role as the holder of the UNESCO Chair in Culture and Arts in Education. This global initiative promotes the integration of arts and culture into education systems in Kenya and the Eastern Africa region, furthering UNESCO’s mission to advance Sustainable Development Goal 4—ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.
The celebration highlighted the importance of mother languages in education and cultural identity. The day was vibrant with cultural presentations from Kabarak University students, Kabarak TVET students, and Moi High School Kabarak, showcasing the rich tapestry of Kenyan cultures. Kabarak University actively promotes cultural cohesion in education, recognizing that embracing diverse languages and traditions enriches the learning experience and fosters a more inclusive community.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Administration & Finance, Prof. Ronald Chepkilot, warmly welcomed attendees to the silver jubilee celebration. He emphasized the profound importance of language, not only as a means of communication but also as a vessel of culture, a connector of communities, and a vital tool for preserving heritage. Prof. Chepkilot highlighted how International Mother Language Day was established to foster cultural heritage and how multilingualism contributes to international relations. He reiterated Kabarak University and UNESCO's shared commitment to culture for sustainable educational development, emphasizing the importance of preserving languages. "We are dedicated to continuing with this initiative through education and connecting our heritage in education through research," Prof. Chepkilot affirmed from the Vice Chancellor's speech.
The keynote speaker, Mr. Michael Pundo, CEO of the Kenya Cultural Centre/Kenya National Theatre, delivered an inspiring address, underscoring how a strong foundation in research enhances cognitive development and fuels mother language artistic and creative expression. The conference featured a diverse array of presentations on Culture and Arts Education, covering topics such as Indigenous Knowledge Systems (KIKS), music streaming services for indigenous language preservation, eco-critical studies of art, dialogue, and songs, and the significance of cultural heritage for environmental sustainability.
This significant event marked a milestone for Kabarak University, both locally and internationally. The 25th-anniversary celebration served as a powerful reminder of the crucial role universities play in safeguarding cultural heritage and fostering a global community that embraces linguistic diversity.
