Honouring Dr Olivia Achieng Opere: Researcher and Principal Investigator under ESSA and REAL Centre’s Early Childhood Development Project

Dr Olivia Achieng Opere was a research grant awardee under ESSA and the REAL Centre’s Early Childhood Development (ECD) project. 

 She was a teacher educator and researcher in the Department of Educational Foundations at Kenyatta University, where she contributed to the preparation of future educators and the advancement of education research in Kenya. 

Since June 2025, she served as Principal Investigator on the project, “Evidence synthesis on what works in the integration of digital technology for transformative teaching and learning experiences in literacy for ECD in Kenya.” The study sought to strengthen understanding of how digital approaches can support foundational literacy in early learning contexts. 

Dr Opere was a valued member of the ESSA and REAL Centre research community. Her work strengthened collective efforts to advance equitable learning through evidence. 

We extend our condolences to her family, colleagues, and all who worked closely with her. We honour her contribution to education research and her commitment to improving early learning outcomes. 

Funeral and burial arrangements have been shared with relevant contacts.