Implications of Thomas Aquinas Philosophy on Contemporary Education in Kenya; A Classical Perspective

The overemphasis of human capital for addressing societal needs has driven education systems globally to reorient education systems towards empowering the young with vital competencies for suitability in the job market. In Kenya, such an approach has led to overemphasis of grades, thus void of Values for societal change. However, other approaches like social change perspective that advocates for the transformation of the person for societal change prioritizes the “common good†as vital element for change. In addition, it allows state and religious organizations to influence education curriculum, aims and objectives for societal change. This study critically examines the salient features of Thomas Aquinas’ Theory of education and establishes whether Thomas Aquinas’ philosophical ideas can facilitate the realization of responsible citizens in Kenya.. The study recommends for a multidimensional approach in handling discipline issues, curriculum formulation and implementation and finally embracing a thomistic tradition for reforming education in Kenya for holistic training.