The Kenya Education Management Institute (KEMI) has opened a nationwide KEMIS training programme for primary and junior school heads. The course is delivered online and includes certification for headteachers and principals who complete the modules. The training aims to equip school leaders with practical skills in the new Kenya Education Management Information System (KEMIS), strengthen data-driven school management, and support implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
Key Takeaways
- Target: Heads of Institutions (HOIs) for Primary and Junior schools.
- Platform: Virtual online training on the KEMIS platform.
- Registration deadline: Schools were asked to register by April 30, 2026.
- Start date: Training began on May 4, 2026, and successful participants receive certification.
KEMIS training: What school heads need to know
The main purpose of the KEMIS training is to prepare HOIs to use the Kenya Education Management Information System for daily school administration, reporting, and planning. The course covers how to enter and update learner records, generate performance reports, and use data for decision-making. KEMIS training is essential for school leaders who must align institutional reporting with Ministry of Education systems and CBC requirements.
Registration and timeline
KEMI required all school heads to submit their professional details through the institute’s portal before the set deadline. County Education offices were asked to mobilize and verify registration to ensure every head in their jurisdiction could access the online classes. Failure to register meant a headteacher risked being left out of the training and missing the certification opportunity.
Course content and skills taught
The KEMIS training focuses on practical tasks and workflows HOIs will use daily. Modules include:
- Registering and updating learner and staff data
- Using dashboards and reports to monitor learner progress
- Linking KEMIS data to CBC planning and assessment cycles
- Ensuring institutional accountability through accurate records
Sessions combine demonstrations and guided exercises so participants can practice within the system and ask questions during virtual sessions.
Why KEMIS matters for CBC implementation
KEMIS replaces the older NEMIS system and is designed to be more flexible and integrative. It unifies data across basic education, TVET, universities, and agencies involved in examinations and teacher management. For school leaders implementing the Competency-Based Curriculum, KEMIS provides a single source of truth for learner progress and supports planning with real-time data. To align classroom plans with national expectations, heads can use resources such as CBC curriculum designs and CBC lesson plans while updating KEMIS records.
How counties and HOIs should prepare
County education offices should coordinate registration drives, confirm internet access at training times, and assign support staff to assist less tech-savvy HOIs. Heads should:
- Complete the professional detail submission on the KEMI portal before deadlines.
- Reserve time for live sessions and practical exercises.
- Collect and digitize key school records in advance (learner lists, staffing, class structures).
School leaders can also use sample exams and assessment resources, such as Grade 1–3 CBC term 1 exams, to practice linking classroom data with KEMIS reporting.
Expected benefits and certification
HOIs who complete the training receive a certificate from KEMI. The certification recognizes competency in digital education management and strengthens professional standing when handling school administration under CBC reforms. Benefits include improved planning, easier compliance with Ministry reporting, and better use of data for monitoring learner outcomes.
Practical tips for success
- Attend all live sessions and download any provided guides or templates.
- Practice in the system immediately after each module to reinforce learning.
- Collaborate with other HOIs in your county to share tips and troubleshoot challenges.
- Keep a record of your certificate and training completion for school files and Ministry requests.
Completing the KEMIS training positions school heads to lead digital transformation in their institutions and to use data effectively in implementing the Competency-Based Curriculum and national education reforms.
