The Changing Landscape of Education Post-Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic didn’t just disrupt schools—it rewired how we think about education. Classrooms shut down. Learning moved online. Suddenly, students and professionals alike had to adapt. Out of that chaos came a powerful idea: education doesn’t have to be bound by time, place, or pace.
In Kenya, where access to quality education is often limited by geography, income, or infrastructure, self-paced learning is opening new doors. From a university student in Kakamega using her phone to complete a Coursera course, to a Nairobi-based marketer upskilling through YouTube tutorials at night—self-paced learning is redefining what’s possible.
1. Flexible and Inclusive
How Self-Paced Learning Fits Diverse Lifestyles
Self-paced learning isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity, especially in Kenya.
Many Kenyan learners juggle school, side hustles, and family responsibilities. Whether you’re working a 9–5 job in Nairobi, running a kiosk in Eldoret, or herding livestock in Garissa, traditional classroom schedules don’t always work. Self-paced learning gives you the freedom to study when it suits you—be it early morning, during lunch breaks, or late at night.
Case Examples
- Linet, 22, from Kisii: Took an online UI/UX design course while helping in her family’s grocery business. She now works remotely for a South African startup.
- George, a boda boda rider in Nakuru: Learned basic coding through free platforms like FreeCodeCamp. He’s now building simple websites for local businesses.
- Martha, a mother of three in Machakos: Studied early childhood development at her own pace through an online TVET program. She now runs her own daycare.
2. Customized Learning Paths
Adaptive Learning Technologies
Self-paced platforms use AI and analytics to tailor content. Whether you’re struggling with algebra or excelling in marketing analytics, the system adjusts—slowing down or speeding up as needed. This ensures you’re not left behind—or held back.
In Kenya, platforms like M-Shule use SMS-based adaptive learning to reach students without smartphones. Others, like Eneza Education, provide content for basic education through USSD—proving that innovation doesn’t require flashy tech.
Examples of Flexible Course Designs
- Ajira Digital Program: Sponsored by the Kenyan government, it lets youth learn digital skills on their own time, with access to mentors and gigs.
- Zydii: A Kenyan-made platform offering self-paced courses tailored to African professionals.
- Google’s Grow With Google and Coursera’s Google Certificates: Offer bite-sized, industry-recognized credentials learners can complete at their own pace—some for free.
3. Cost-Effective
Comparison With Traditional Education Costs
University fees in Kenya can range from KES 50,000 to over KES 200,000 per year. Add boarding, transport, and books, and it becomes unreachable for many. In contrast, self-paced online courses often cost a fraction or nothing at all.
For example:
- Coursera offers many courses free if you don’t need a certificate.
- YouTube tutorials are free and cover nearly every topic imaginable.
- ALX Africa, backed by Mastercard Foundation, offers fully funded tech training with flexible learning paths.
Financial Accessibility for Global Learners
Kenyan learners can now tap into scholarships, income-share agreements, and NGO-sponsored programs. This levels the field. A student in Mombasa can now learn from Stanford professors or AWS engineers without ever leaving home—or going into debt.
4. How to Get Started
Step-by-Step Beginner’s Checklist
- Identify your goal: Career switch? Promotion? Personal interest?
- Assess your time: How many hours a week can you realistically commit?
- Check your device & data: Do you need low-bandwidth options?
- Choose a platform: Pick based on your needs—free, certificate-based, mobile-friendly, etc.
- Set a schedule: Treat it like a job. Block off time.
- Start small: Begin with a short course (1–2 hours/week).
- Track progress: Use tools or journals to stay accountable.
- Join communities: Facebook groups, Telegram study circles, or Discord servers help you stay motivated.
Pro Tip: Ensure the platform you settle on offers more than just video lessons.
Conclusion: Embrace the Shift
Self-paced learning isn’t just a trend—it’s a solution. It gives Kenyans the tools to learn, grow, and compete globally, no matter where they live or what they earn.
Yes, it requires discipline. Yes, it demands curiosity. But the rewards? Massive.
You don’t need permission to learn anymore. You just need a plan—and maybe a smartphone. So start now. Pick a course. Watch a video. Build a skill. The future of education is flexible, personal, and already here. It’s up to you to grab it.
Learning online is the way to go