The Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) stands at the forefront of promoting inclusive education for students with special needs in Kenya. Established under Legal Notice No. 17 of 1986, KISE operates as a Semi-Autonomous Government Agency (SAGA) under the Ministry of Education. The institute’s primary objective is to ensure that children with special needs, regardless of their disabilities, have access to quality education similar to other students in the mainstream educational system.
KISE offers a variety of training programs focused on special education, designed to equip teachers and professionals with the skills required to educate children with diverse needs. This article provides an in-depth look at the key functions of KISE, the courses it offers, the entry requirements for these programs, and everything you need to know about pursuing a career in special education through KISE.
Key Functions of KISE in Special Education
KISE plays a pivotal role in the advancement of special education in Kenya. With its diverse range of functions, the institute helps enhance the quality of education for children with special needs. Here are some of the primary functions that KISE undertakes:
1. Teacher Training Programs for Special Needs Education
KISE conducts various teacher training programs aimed at providing educators with the skills necessary to teach children with special needs. These programs focus on specific areas such as Autism, Intellectual Disabilities, Hearing and Visual Impairment, and Inclusive Education. The goal is to ensure that teachers are well-equipped to address the unique challenges faced by students with disabilities.
2. In-Service and Continuing Education Courses
KISE also offers in-service training courses for teachers and other professionals already working in the field of special education. These courses are tailored to help educators develop their skills and knowledge further, enabling them to adopt more effective teaching methods and techniques for students with special needs.
3. Correspondence and Distance Learning Programs
For those unable to attend full-time classes, KISE offers correspondence and distance learning options. These flexible programs allow professionals to pursue their education while continuing to work, making it easier for them to integrate learning into their schedules.
4. Psychological and Educational Assessment Services
KISE provides psychological and educational assessments for children with special needs. The assessments are used to determine the appropriate interventions and teaching strategies needed for children with various disabilities, ensuring that each child receives personalized and effective educational support.
5. Early Childhood Stimulation and Training
The institute also runs a preschool department focused on providing early stimulation and educational opportunities for children with special needs. Early intervention is critical in the development of children with disabilities, and KISE ensures that these children receive the proper care and training they need in their formative years.
6. Resource and Research Centers
KISE operates a resource center where it produces, assembles, and repairs special materials and equipment used in the education of students with special needs. This center is also responsible for conducting research on various aspects of special education to continually improve the quality of teaching methods and materials available for students with disabilities.
7. Public Awareness and Sensitization Campaigns
As part of its mission to promote inclusive education, KISE also engages in public sensitization campaigns. These efforts are focused on raising awareness about the needs and rights of children with special needs, encouraging society to adopt more inclusive attitudes and practices.
Courses Offered at KISE and Their Requirements
KISE offers a wide range of courses designed for those who want to pursue a career in special education. The institute provides diploma, craft certificate, and short courses. Below are the key programs offered by KISE and the requirements for each.
1. Diploma in Special Needs Education (SNE)
The Diploma in Special Needs Education is a flagship course offered by KISE. It is designed for individuals who wish to specialize in teaching children with disabilities. The diploma program covers a broad range of disabilities, including hearing impairments, visual impairments, autism, and learning disabilities, among others.
Course Requirements:
- Primary Teacher Certificate (P1) with at least two years of teaching experience.
- Certificate in Early Childhood Education (ECDE) with at least D+ in KCSE and two years of teaching experience.
- P2 Teacher Certificate with a Certificate in Special Needs Education (SNE) from KISE or another recognized institution and at least five years of teaching experience.
The program can be pursued through full-time, distance, or online learning options.
2. Craft Certificate Courses in Special Needs Education
In addition to the diploma, KISE also offers craft certificate courses for individuals seeking specialized training in different areas of special needs education. These courses are ideal for teachers, caregivers, and professionals in related fields.
Available Courses:
- Functional Assessment: Requires a Diploma in Special Needs Education.
- Inclusive Education: Open to individuals with a minimum of D in KCSE.
- Kenyan Sign Language: Requires a minimum of D in KCSE.
- Braille Proficiency: Requires a minimum of D in KCSE.
These courses are accessible to anyone with the relevant qualifications and can be undertaken through full-time or part-time study modes.
3. Short Courses at KISE
KISE also offers various short courses in special education. These programs provide an opportunity to gain knowledge in specific areas related to special needs education and are ideal for those looking to broaden their expertise in this field.
Available Short Courses:
- Kenyan Sign Language
- Disability Mainstreaming
- Inclusive Education
- Counseling Skills for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs)
- Community Mobilization for Persons with Disabilities
- Introduction to Persons with Disabilities
- HIV Mitigation for Persons with Disabilities
These short courses typically run for a shorter duration and provide practical skills that can be applied immediately in the field.
KISE Campuses and Training Locations
KISE operates multiple campuses across Kenya to make its programs more accessible to individuals in various regions. The main campus is located in Kasarani, Nairobi, but there are several other branches where students can enroll in special education programs.
KISE Campuses:
- Kasarani Main Campus (Nairobi)
- Kericho Teachers College Campus
- Migori Teachers College Campus
- Nairobi CBD Campus (Reinsurance Plaza)
- Shimo La Tewa High School Campus
- Sigalagala National Polytechnic Campus
- Thika Technical Institute Campus
These campuses offer full-time, part-time, and distance learning options, giving students flexibility in their study schedules.
Fee Structure at KISE
The fees for programs at KISE vary depending on the course level and mode of learning. The fee structure is designed to make education in special needs accessible to a wide range of students. For the Diploma in Special Needs Education, the fees are as follows:
- Full-time (First Year): Ksh 97,000
- ODeL (Open Distance and eLearning) (First Year): Ksh 72,000
- Second Year: Ksh 135,000
For craft certificate courses, the fees range from Ksh 44,000 to Ksh 86,000, depending on the specific course and mode of study.
KISE – A Gateway to a Rewarding Career in Special Education
The Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) plays a critical role in shaping the future of special education in Kenya. By offering a wide variety of courses, from diplomas to short-term certifications, KISE provides an excellent pathway for individuals looking to make a difference in the lives of children with special needs. Whether you are a teacher looking to enhance your skills or someone passionate about working with children with disabilities, KISE offers the training, resources, and support you need to succeed.
With the growing demand for inclusive education in Kenya, pursuing a course at KISE can open doors to a fulfilling career that not only enriches your life but also positively impacts the education sector and society as a whole.
