Rehema Abiyo | General Linguistics | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Rehema Abiyo | General Linguistics | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Rehema Abiyo, Aston University, Kenya

Dr. Rehema Abiyo (PhD) πŸ“š is a passionate advocate for children’s literacy and language reclamation in marginalized communities. With over a decade of experience, she’s a researcher in sociolinguistics, multilingual education, and digital literacy. Rehema’s work focuses on empowering minority language groups through innovative educational models. She’s authored Kipfokomo language course books and held positions in academia and community development, impacting education policies and practices. Currently, a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Aston University, her interdisciplinary approach reflects her commitment to bridging gaps in language and literacy acquisition. πŸŒβœοΈπŸ“–

 

Publication Profile:

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Education Background:

Dr. Rehema Abiyo’s academic journey showcases a dedication to understanding and improving education in diverse contexts. She earned her PhD in General Linguistics from Stellenbosch University, delving into literacy practices within multilingual settings, particularly focusing on Tana River County in Kenya. Her master’s degree in Project Planning & Management from the University of Nairobi examined the sustainability of mother tongue-based multilingual education programs in the same region. Prior to that, she completed a Bachelor of Education in Arts at Kenyatta University, majoring in French language and Islamic Studies. πŸ“šπŸŽ“πŸŒ

 

Research Experience:

Dr. Rehema Abiyo’s research journey continues as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Aston University, where she explores mealtime language dynamics in Kenya and Zambia, aiming to understand its implications on education and culture. Previously, she served as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Stellenbosch University, where her work likely contributed to her current project’s foundation. With each endeavor, she persists in unraveling the intricacies of language and culture, shedding light on their significance in marginalized communities’ lives. πŸŒπŸ”πŸ½οΈ

 

Work Experience:

Dr. Rehema Abiyo’s professional journey reflects a profound commitment to education and community development. As a Part-time Lecturer at the University of Nairobi in 2018, she engaged students with captivating lectures, assessed their progress, and guided research initiatives. During her tenure with Bible Translation and Literacy from 2015 to 2017, she authored essential educational materials in Kipfokomo language, aligning with national curriculum standards, ensuring access to quality education in Tana River County. Her role as a County Education Board Member at the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (2014-2017) demonstrated leadership in managing educational programs. Additionally, her work with the Girl Child Network (2012-2013) in child protection significantly improved girls’ welfare and educational outcomes in Tana River, Kenya. πŸ“šπŸ‘©β€πŸ«πŸŒ±

 

Research Focus:

Dr. Rehema Abiyo’s research focuses on language and literacy practices, particularly within multilingual contexts and marginalized communities. Her studies delve into the implementation of language in education policies, such as her examination of a Pokomo speakers’ school in Tana River County. Through ethnographic studies, she explores literacy practices within and outside of schools, shedding light on the complexities of education in diverse linguistic landscapes. By making languages visible and fostering linguistic citizenship, she aims to promote well-being and empowerment among speakers of heritage languages. πŸ“šπŸŒπŸ”