A learner who does not understand the word “photosynthesis” is unlikely to fully grasp the Science lesson built around it. A student who struggles with terms such as “variance” or “climate” may find it difficult to engage with Mathematics or Geography long before they enter the examination room. This is why literacy is about far more than the ability to read words; it is about understanding language well enough to learn, think and communicate.
Across East Africa, improving literacy remains a major education priority. While access to education has increased significantly over the years, research continues to show that many learners still struggle to achieve the reading proficiency needed to succeed across the curriculum.
Research by Lucas, McEwan, Ngware and Oketch on improving early-grade literacy in East Africa highlights the close relationship between literacy skills and educational achievement, particularly in environments where learners must navigate multiple languages and varying levels of exposure to reading materials. Vocabulary development emerges as a critical factor in reading comprehension and academic success.
This is especially relevant in Kenya, where English is not only taught as a subject but also serves as the primary language through which learners access much of their education. A learner who struggles with vocabulary is likely to struggle to understand a Science concept, interpret a Geography passage, analyse a History text, or respond accurately to an examination question. Literacy, therefore, is not simply about reading. It is about understanding meaning, expressing ideas clearly, analysing information and communicating with confidence.
Yet as discussions around literacy continue, much attention tends to focus on curriculum reform, teacher training, assessment systems and technology. While these are all important, the conversation often overlooks one of the most accessible and cost-effective literacy tools available to learners: the dictionary.
In our pursuit of new solutions, we may be underestimating the value of a resource that has been supporting learning for generations. With increasing internet penetration and widespread access to digital devices, many learners instinctively turn to search engines whenever they encounter an unfamiliar word. While online searches can provide quick answers, they do not always provide understanding.
A dictionary offers much more than a definition. It provides pronunciation guidance, grammatical information, example sentences, collocations, word families and contextual explanations that help learners understand how language works. Rather than simply supplying an answer, it supports deeper language development and encourages independent learning.
For instance, a learner searching for an unfamiliar word online may be presented with multiple definitions, advertisements or unrelated content. By contrast, a learner using a well-designed learner’s dictionary encounters carefully curated explanations, examples and contextual guidance that support genuine comprehension.
The value of dictionaries becomes even clearer in the classroom.
Before introducing a new text, teachers can identify key vocabulary and encourage learners to explore meanings, pronunciation and usage using a dictionary. During reading activities, learners can independently investigate unfamiliar terms rather than immediately relying on teachers for explanations. In doing so, they build comprehension while developing self-confidence and the habits of lifelong learning.
Vocabulary instruction should also extend beyond English lessons. Every day, learners encounter specialised terminology across subjects. Understanding these words is often the first step towards understanding the concepts themselves. When teachers encourage learners to use dictionaries to unpack subject-specific vocabulary, they are simultaneously strengthening literacy and improving subject mastery.
Dictionaries also play a critical role in writing and speaking. Many learners have strong ideas but lack the vocabulary needed to express them accurately and effectively. A good dictionary helps learners select appropriate words, understand word forms, identify collocations and avoid repetitive language.
Modern learner dictionaries have evolved to support these broader communication needs. For example, the latest edition of the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary integrates resources such as the Oxford Writing Tutor, which helps learners organise and develop ideas for written communication, and the Oxford Speaking Tutor, which supports spoken English skills and preparation for academic and professional communication.
Evidence from Kenya reinforces the value of dictionary use. In 2016, Oxford University Press East Africa conducted research among 363 secondary school learners in Kenya. The study found that students who reported frequent dictionary use achieved stronger spelling performance than those who used dictionaries less often. More than four-fifths of learners also reported owning dictionaries at home, reflecting the continued importance of dictionaries in supporting learning.
As Kenya continues to pursue improved learning outcomes under competency-based education (CBE), it is worth remembering that literacy is built one word at a time. Curriculum reforms, technology, assessment, and teacher training all have important roles to play. However, their impact ultimately depends on learners’ ability to understand and use language effectively.
In a knowledge-driven economy, vocabulary is not merely a language skill. It is a foundation for learning, problem-solving, communication and future employability. Learners who cannot confidently access academic language today may struggle to access opportunities tomorrow.
Kenya’s literacy debate often centres on what needs to be added to classrooms. Perhaps we should also pay closer attention to what is already there. In the hands of a learner, a dictionary is more than a reference tool; it is a bridge between words, knowledge and opportunity.
About Oxford University Press East Africa
Oxford University Press East Africa (OUPEA) is a leading educational publisher and part of Oxford University Press, a department of the University of Oxford. For decades, OUPEA has supported teaching and learning across Eastern and Central Africa through high-quality educational resources, trusted reference materials, and teacher professional development programmes.
As Kenya advances competency-based education (CBE), OUPEA partners with schools, teachers, and learners by providing curriculum-aligned learning materials, assessment support, and innovative learning solutions that promote critical thinking, communication, creativity, and independent learning.
OUPEA is also renowned for its authoritative reference publishing, including the Kamusi ya Kiswahili Sanifu and the globally trusted Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary, helping millions of learners build the language and literacy skills needed for success in education, work, and life.
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Daisy Rono-Mwangi, Head of Marketing
Oxford University Press East Africa Email: daisy.mwangi@oup.com
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