Empowering Poets: Kenya’s First Accredited Tertiary Level Poetry Curriculum
Image courtesy: Kenya Cultural Centre, Incorporating Kenya National Theatre
We’re excited to share that The Kenya Cultural Centre, incorporating the Kenya National Theatre, has achieved Kenya's first tertiary-level (TVET Level 3) accreditation for the Poetry Theatre Artistes' Training Curriculum. Accredited by TVET CDACC (the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Curriculum Development, Assessment and Certification Council), and TVETA (the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority), this curriculum is designed to meet the needs of poets by equipping them with the essential skills to develop their talents, grow their abilities, and adopt a professional mindset to monetise their craft and achieve sustainable income. This is a significant milestone in the viability of Kenyan artists pursuing careers in poetry.
The Poetry Theatre Development project is supported by the Ignite Culture EA program, Eastern Africa’s largest grant facility for the creative and cultural industries. Ignite Culture EA is implemented by HEVA in partnership with the British Council Kenya, with financial contributions from the European Union and support from the Organisation of ACP (African, Caribbean, and Pacific) States as part of the global ACP-EU Culture Programme.
The Vision Behind the Project
The primary goal of The Poetry Theatre Development project is to create a platform for poets to enhance their skills, develop their craft, and explore avenues for economic stability through their artistry. Anchored in the Poetry After Lunch (PAL) program, which serves as a national talent development platform, this initiative extends its reach through ten counties: Turkana, Narok, Kisumu, Embu, Meru, Busia, Nakuru, Kilifi, Kakamega, and Mombasa.
The project aims to transition poets from writing short pieces to producing full-length poetry shows, enabling them to earn a living from their art. With the rise of digital platforms and opportunities in the arts sector, artists must be equipped with the skills necessary to thrive in today’s creative economy.
The Need for a Poetry Curriculum
A comprehensive needs assessment survey conducted across the ten counties highlighted the gap in training for poets, revealing that many lack the necessary skills for longer performances and integration with other art forms. The findings underscored the importance of a structured curriculum to address these gaps, leading to the development of the Poetry Theatre Artists Curriculum.
The Curriculum Overview
The Poetry Theatre Artists Curriculum is a Level 3 program designed specifically for poets in Kenya. This needs-based curriculum focuses on equipping learners with essential skills in various areas, including:
Digital Literacy
Workplace Essential Skills
Entertainment Law, Art, and Society
Poetry Theatre Writing
Poetry Theatre Performance
Poetry Theatre Show Production
Poetry Theatre Marketing
Poetry Theatre Publishing
This curriculum is a first in Kenya, tailored to meet the competency needs of aspiring poetry professionals.
Voices from the Classroom
Several poets who participated in the training shared their experiences and insights about the curriculum:
Dennis Mwangi (Nakuru County)
“I highly recommend the curriculum to any poet across the country. It equips artists with essential writing, performing, and technical skills. My experience was amazing, and I truly valued the network created with other poets.”
Moses Kiptoo (Uasin Gishu County)
“This curriculum is fundamental for equipping creatives with the necessary skills to thrive in the industry. It’s a dynamic approach to both literary and performance arts education, enhancing my public speaking and entrepreneurial skills.”
Oliver Mwakio (Mombasa County)
“The curriculum covers all vital aspects for poets to make their craft economically viable. My experience was eye-opening, allowing me to unlearn and relearn essential concepts.”
Nelson Kiboni (Kilifi County)
“Participating in the courses was highly beneficial, providing practical skills and opportunities to network with fellow poets.”
Hamza Athumani (Embu County)
“This initiative should be offered in TVET institutions, empowering poets to reach new heights in their craft.”
Quentin Otieno (Kisumu County)
“This curriculum marks a new era in poetry, giving rise to organic poets equipped with the skills needed to solidify their brands.”
David Njoroge (Kakamega County)
“It’s a game changer for poetry in Kenya, helping to bring our rich heritage to the world stage.”
Image courtesy: Kenya Cultural Centre, Incorporating Kenya National Theatre
The Poetry Theatre Artists Curriculum represents a significant step forward for the poetry community in Kenya. By providing structured training and essential skills, this initiative not only fosters individual growth among poets but also enhances the overall cultural landscape. As poets harness their talents and learn to navigate the creative industry, they are poised to make a lasting impact on society and the arts.
Congratulations again to our grantee and fellow cultural changemaker, The Kenya Cultural Centre, on this success.
