New edition unveiled before 9,500 school heads underscores renewed focus on English mastery in Kenya’s curriculum transition

Mombasa, June 24, 2026 – For generations of Kenyan students, the first day of secondary school has carried a quiet but powerful symbol of transition: a brand-new Oxford Dictionary, carefully covered, labelled, and carried with pride.

Today, that tradition takes on renewed meaning.

More than 9,500 Heads of Institutions gathered at this year’s Kenya Senior School Heads Association (KESSHA) conference witnessed the launch of the 11th edition of the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary (OALD11), as Oxford University Press (OUP) reaffirmed its role at the heart of English language learning in Kenyan schools. More than just a reference book, the Oxford Dictionary has long been regarded as a learner’s first step into academic independence, critical thinking, and confident communication.

As Kenya deepens the implementation of Competency-Based Education (CBE), the demands on learners and teachers have evolved.

English is no longer just a subject; it is the foundation for learning across the curriculum.

The use of reference tools such as dictionaries is now embedded across learning areas, with curriculum activities requiring learners to interpret meaning, pronunciation, and word usage independently. Recognising this shift, OUP has reimagined its flagship dictionary to meet the realities of today’s classroom.

The new edition introduces over 2,000 new words and meanings, reflecting the language of modern life from artificial intelligence and climate change to digital habits such as doomscrolling and livestreaming. It also expands its coverage of World English, including familiar East African expressions such as mbuzi and Bongo Flava, making the content more relevant and relatable to Kenyan learners.

At its core is simplicity. Every definition is written using the Oxford 3000 core vocabulary, ensuring that even complex ideas are explained in clear, accessible language, a critical support as learners navigate increasingly demanding subjects.

Equipping teachers to deliver under CBE

The value of a dictionary goes far beyond English lessons. With structured tools such as the Oxford Writing Tutor and Speaking Tutor, alongside visual vocabulary builders and real-life examples, the resource is designed to help learners not only understand language but use it effectively.

For teachers, it provides a trusted, classroom-ready tool to guide instruction, support comprehension, and build confidence among students.

“At Oxford University Press, we recognise that strong English proficiency underpins success across the curriculum. This new edition is closely aligned to curriculum needs, enabling learners to think critically, express themselves clearly, and succeed in a rapidly changing world,” said Beatrice Karanja, Chief Publishing Officer at Oxford University Press, East Africa.

In today’s classrooms, language is not confined to one lesson. The ability to understand instructions, interpret concepts, and engage with content affects performance across Science, Mathematics, Geography, and beyond, where the Oxford dictionary continues to deliver lasting value.

Speaking at the conference, the National Chairperson of the Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association (KESSHA), Willie Kuria said:

“For generations, the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary has been an essential resource in our schools, particularly at Senior School level. It is not only a tool for learning English, but a critical support for understanding concepts across subjects. The clarity of language and additional learning resources enable students to grasp even complex STEM and mathematical terms with ease.”

The launch comes at a time when teachers are increasingly focused on improving literacy outcomes and ensuring learners can meet the demands of the CBE curriculum, where communication, comprehension, and application are key.

By combining modern vocabulary, practical learning tools, and globally trusted content, the new edition bridges the gap between knowledge and understanding, supporting a new generation of learners as they transition into Junior and Senior Schools under the new curriculum.

From well-worn copies once passed down between siblings, to the pride of carrying a brand-new dictionary into Form One, the Oxford dictionary has long been part of Kenya’s educational journey. Today, it remains a trusted companion honouring that legacy while equipping learners for the demands of a changing classroom.

As thousands of school heads gathered in Mombasa this week, one message was clear: while classrooms continue to evolve, the need for strong language foundations remains constant and for many Kenyan learners, that journey still begins with a single, familiar book

About Oxford University Press East Africa:

Oxford University Press is a global authority on the English language. As part of the University of Oxford, we advance English language learning worldwide, bringing together deep expertise, research, and innovation to create high-quality resources that empower millions of learners to achieve their full potential.

For media enquiries, please contact:
Daisy Rono- Mwangi
Head of Marketing
Oxford University Press East Africa
Email: daisy.mwangi@oup.com

Tel:0726444392