From Kenya to Pilsen: Charles Omboto Strengthens Research on Inclusive Education at UWB

He focuses on inclusive education and comparative research between Africa and Europe. A Kenyan researcher and educator has recently joined the ranks of scientists and lecturers at the Faculty of Education of the University of West Bohemia in Pilsen.

The University of West Bohemia in Pilsen reports a new international addition. Kenyan academic Charles Omboto is collaborating with the Faculty of Education on research, teaching, and international projects. “My long-term research focus is on inclusive education and support for students with disabilities. I am particularly interested in how education systems can better promote inclusive approaches through teacher education, educational policy, and accessible learning environments,” Omboto explained.

In Pilsen, he primarily focuses on comparative research of education systems in the Czech Republic and Kenya. He collaborates with the Centre for Educational Research and the Department of Special and Inclusive Education, and is involved in the activities of the EUPeace university alliance, which focuses on internationalising teacher education. His work also includes preparing joint academic publications, participating in expert workshops within the EUPeace project, and teaching and student activities in English.

“The collaboration offers an opportunity to share experience and good practice between universities in the Czech Republic and Kenya. For me personally, it is a chance to broaden my research perspectives and gain new experience. For the faculty, it represents a further strengthening of the international dimension of its projects,” the Kenyan educator summarised the benefits of his work at UWB. He also expressed satisfaction with his stay in Pilsen: “The faculty is open and collegial, and working in this environment is very inspiring for me. Pilsen also offers a pleasant atmosphere, cultural life, and well-functioning public transport.”

According to Charles Omboto, one of the differences between the Czech Republic and East African Kenya lies primarily in the research infrastructure. He perceives UWB's digital infrastructure as highly developed. He also appreciates access to academic databases and the structured collaboration between research teams. Looking ahead, Omboto aims to develop research on inclusive education further and contribute to a deeper comparison of the education systems of both countries. He also plans to continue teaching and engaging in activities that connect theory with practice - for example, through student field trips.

Fifty-nine-year-old Charles Omboto previously worked at the Kenya Institute of Special Education under the Kenyan Ministry of Education, where he held both academic and leadership positions. He also participated in an international literacy development programme in Tanzania supported by USAID. He joined the Faculty of Education at UWB as part of the Institutional Support for the Long-term Conceptual Development of Research Organisations (RS DKRVO).