Biography
Dr. Irene Simiyu is an experienced educator, researcher, and academic leader with over a decade of service at Kibabii University, where she currently serves in the Department of Curriculum and Pedagogy as Chair of department. She holds a PhD in Educational Communication and Technology from Kenyatta University and a Master of Education (Teacher Education) from Aga Khan University, IED, EA. Her Bachelor of Education (Arts) was from the University of Nairobi. Her career entails many years of secondary school teaching where held a number of leadership positions as a Head of department, patron of a number of clubs and career advisor to students. She chairs the Department of Curriculum and Pedagogy, has served as Coordinator of Communication Skills, Warden of student hostels, Patron of the University Choir, and Chairperson of the Public Complaints and Compliments Handling Committee. Dr. Simiyu is a strong advocate for teacher-led professional development, action research, and reflective practice. She has presented papers at numerous international and national conferences (including KAEAM, KIBU, Pan African Reading for All, and Kenyatta University) and has published widely on topics such as teacher mentoring, moral education, action research, and communication skills. She has been an active partner in major international research projects, including the EU-funded IMPACT-ED project and the Erasmus+ AHEAD project. She has also served as a trainer for the British Council’s English Connects Action Research Mentoring Program across Ethiopia, Sudan, and Nigeria. Dr. Simiyu is a member of several professional bodies, including CODESRIA, ILA, KAEAM, KUQAN, and MenTRnet, and serves as a journal reviewer and assistant editor. She was a faculty nominee for Lecturer of the Year (2022). She brings strong competencies in: Doctoral and postgraduate supervision, Blended and online learning facilitation (C_DELTA trained), Curriculum and course material development, University committee leadership and policy development, Teacher mentorship and professional development, Action research and classroom-based inquiry and Community engagement and student support. Dr. Simiyu is committed to advancing quality education, sustainable academic leadership, and the professional growth of both teachers and students.
Academic Qualification
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Field of Specialization
Membership of Professional Bodies
Professional Training and Development
Lecturer
- Teaching several undergraduate and postgraduate courses including: Communication skills, Special Methods in English, Management of Educational Resources,
- Performing in research
- Chair of Department
- A course leader of Communication skills course.
Assistant Lecturer
- Teaching and examining undergraduate courses including: Communication skills, English as a Second Language, Special Methods in English and Intercultural Communication, Education courses to undergraduates and post graduate students.
- Supervising undergraduate Students' in School Practice.
- Participating in research activities and research teams.
- Writing journal papers and attending conferences.
Part-Time Lecturer
- Teaching courses in English, Literature, Journalism and Mass Communication Department including Communication skills, English as a Second Language, Special Methods in English and Intercultural Communication
Teacher of English and Literature Class teacher Teacher in Charge of Career services Patron – Debating society
- Improved learners' performance in English and Literature through effective teaching methodologies and academic mentorship.
- Provided guidance and support to students as a Class Teacher, promoting discipline and academic progress.
- Successfully coordinated career guidance and counseling activities as Teacher in Charge of Career Services.
- Assisted students in making informed academic and career choices, including university and professional pathways.
- Organized career talks, mentorship sessions, and student advisory programs.
- Enhanced students' public speaking, argumentation, and leadership skills through the Debating Society.
Teacher of English and Literature Class teacher Patron- Christian Union, Writers club, Debating society
- Improved student performance in English and Literature through effective teaching strategies and learner centered instruction.
- Successfully guided students in debates, writing competitions, and public speaking activities through the Debating Society and Writers Club.
- Mentored and provided academic and moral guidance to students as a Class Teacher and Christian Union Patron.
- Promoted students' communication, leadership, and creative writing skills through co curricular activities.
- Organized and coordinated school literary, debate, and spiritual development programs.
- Supported holistic student development by integrating academic, social, and moral mentorship.
- Encouraged active student participation in inter school academic and co curricular events.
- Contributed to the growth of reading, writing, and critical thinking culture among learners.
Teacher of English and Literature, Class teacher, Patron – Christian Union
- Delivered effective instruction in English and Literature, enhancing students' language and analytical skills.
- Guided and mentored students academically and socially in the role of Class Teacher.
- Promoted moral and spiritual development among students as Patron of the Christian Union.
- Fostered positive teacher student relationships and a supportive learning environment.
- Encouraged student participation in classroom discussions, reading, and communication activities.
- Contributed to student discipline, guidance, and overall personal development.
- Assisted in organizing student centered activities and school programs.
- Supported the development of students' confidence, leadership, and teamwork skills.
- Maintained effective classroom management and promoted academic excellence.
Professional Research Interest
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Research Funds Attracted as Collaborating Scientist
Research Funds Attracted as Principal Investigator / Co-PI
Funds Attracted for Community Development
Consultancy
Consulting Services
Publications
Oduor, V. O., Orina, F. & Simiyu, I. (2025). Finding Peace and Resilience in the middle of a Debilitating Global Pandemic: The Stabilizing and Restorative Propensity of the Zilizopendwa Genre of Music. Journal of Music and Creative Arts, 4(1), 16-28
Simiyu, I., Bwire, M. A. & Ondigi, R. S. (2021). Collaborative Strategies for Teacher-led Professional Development among Teachers of English. International Journal of Social Science and Human Research, 4(10), p. 2988-2996.
Simiyu, I., Bwire, M. A. & Ondigi, R. S. (2021). Teacher-led Professional Development among Teachers of English in Bungoma South Sub-County, Kenya: challenges. International Journal of Education and Research, 9(7), 13-28
Simiyu, I., Mwanzi, J. & Wanambisi, M. (2020). Teacher mentoring: A Synonym for Teacher Professional Instruction and Guidance. African Journal of Education and Social Sciences, 5, p.21-32.
Wepukhulu, R., Makila, L. & Simiyu, I. (2019). Moral Education and Societal Development: Is the Reintroduction of Social Education Ethics the Panacea for Society’s Moral Challenges? African Journal of Education and Social Sciences,4, p.1-13.
Wanyonyi, N. W. & Simiyu, I. (2017). Principals’ Pedagogical Leadership: The Panacea for Challenges facing School Principals. Journal of African Studies in Educational Management and Leadership. 8
Okoth, T. A. & Simiyu, I. (2017). Action Research: The Panacea for Challenges in ESL Teaching in Kenya. Universal Journal of Education Research, 5(4), 698-704
Simiyu, I. & Eyinda, M. C. (2016). Leadership with a Conscience: Narratives on Teacher Leadership from Two Secondary Teachers from Western Kenya. Journal of African Studies in Educational Management and Leadership. 7(2), 4-7
Wephukulu, R. & Simiyu, I. (2016). Teaching Practice as Internship. African Journal of Education and Social Sciences, 1(1), 163-179
Wanyonyi, N. W. & Simiyu, I. (2015). The changing Roles of school managers: where the rubber meets the road. Journal of African Studies in Educational Management and Leadership, 35-52
Simiyu, I. (2014). Peer Editing and Student Participation in a Writing Lesson: An Action Research. International Journal of Literacy and Development, 1(1). 52-57
Kajoro, P., Chirure, H. & Simiyu, I. (2013). Educational Exigencies of the 21st Century: Implications for Teacher Education Programs in East Africa. Journal of Teaching and Learning, 9(1)
Simiyu, I. (2015). Writing Skills. In B. Nyongesa & Simiyu, I. (eds). Communication Skills in Institutions of Higher Learning, pp 107-126. Nairobi: Zeed ‘N’ Cee Ltd.
Simiyu, I. (2025). Doctoral Supervision Development: The Why, How and Who? Paper presented at the 7th Biennial Virtual International Conference, Kibabii University, 11–12 June 2025.
Simiyu, I. (2024). Supporting the Doctoral Supervisor: The Why, How and Who? Paper presented at the Kenya Association of Educational Administration and Management (KAEAM) Conference, Comfy Inn, Eldoret City, 2–4 October 2024.
Simiyu, I. (2024). Classroom Action Research. Presentation for Teacher Mentees at the IATEFL Teachers Research Online Conference, 9–10 March 2024.
Simiyu, I. (2021). Teacher-led Professional Development among Teachers of English in Bungoma South Sub-County, Kenya. Paper presented at the 42nd Postgraduate Webinar for PhD Graduands, School of Education, Kenyatta University, 3 December 2021.
Simiyu, I. (2017). Reflective Practice: A New Paradigm for Kenyan Teachers to Learn in Practice. Paper presented at the Kenya Association of Educational Administration and Management (KAEAM) Conference, Jumuiya Guest House, Nakuru, October 2017.
Simiyu, I. (2017). Moral Education and Societal Development: Is the Re-introduction of Social Education and Ethics the Panacea for Moral Challenges? Paper presented at the 2nd International Scientific Conference, Kibabii University, June 2017.
Simiyu, I. (2017). Teacher Mentoring: A Synonym for Teacher Professional Instruction and Guidance. Paper presented at the 2nd International Scientific Conference, Kibabii University, June 2017.
Simiyu, I. (2015). Teacher Leadership: The Narratives of Two Secondary School Teachers. Paper presented at the Kenya Association of Educational Administration and Management (KAEAM) Conference, Bishop Stam Pastoral Centre, Kakamega, October 2015.
Simiyu, I. (2015). Peer Editing and Improved Classroom Relationships. Paper presented at the 9th Pan African Reading for All Conference, University of Cape Town, 2–4 September 2015.
Simiyu, I. (2014). The Changing Roles of School Managers: Where the Rubber Meets the Road. Paper presented at the Kenya Association of Educational Administration and Management (KAEAM) Conference, Kakamega, October 2014.
Simiyu, I. (2013). Peer Editing and Student Participation in a Writing Lesson: An Action Research. Paper presented at the Pan African Reading for All Conference, Kenya Science College, 29 July–2 August 2013.
Simiyu, I. (2012). Action Research: The Panacea for Best Practice. Paper presented at the 4th International Conference, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, 28–30 June 2012.
Simiyu, I. (2012). Teamwork. Workshop presentation delivered during a one-day workshop for teachers of St. Cecilia Girls High School, Nangina, 23 May 2012.
Simiyu, I. (2011). Head-teachers as Pedagogical Leaders. Workshop presentation delivered during the induction of newly appointed Heads and Deputies in Western Kenya, Mukumu Girls High School, Kakamega, August 2011.
Simiyu, I. (2011). Teachers Professional Development: Sustainable and Generative Modes. Paper presented at the 2nd International Conference on Education, Kenyatta University, 20–22 July 2011.
Simiyu, I. (2010). Towards Improved Compositions: Application of Peer Editing. Paper presented at the SUZA-SPINE International Conference, State University of Zanzibar, 3 December 2010.
Learning Modules
Simiyu, I. & Okoth, T. A. (2019). Communication skills II –E-Learning module. Bungoma: Kibabii University.
Innovations, Prototypes & Commercialization
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