As our education system continues to evolve after the transition from the old 8-4-4 system, there have been quite a few additions as well as eliminations a like. The latest update to the CBC curriculum now includes a new mandatory subject: performing arts. This was especially after Cabinet Secretary for Education, Ezekiel Machogu, advocated for making performing arts mandatory in the new curriculum since it is now part of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
In his announcement, Machogu declared that the CBC syllabus will include learning materials for performing arts. He added that all educational institutions will require their students to participate in performing arts competitions. He also acknowledged that indeed performing arts are not optional for the government, emphasizing its importance. He said some talented young people might even go on to participate globally.
Machogu also observed the progress in children’s performances and suggested teachers to continue encouraging them. He confirmed government’s dedication towards success of CBC, which they believe will be good for both students as well as their nation.
While speaking on the same topic, Machogu also mentioned that the current regime was committed to ensuring that more classrooms are built in primary schools as well as absorbing an additional 20,000 teachers for junior schools to address the challenges faced by these schools.
The government has so far allocated Sh. 9 billion for infrastructure development, with an aim to increase usable space for schooling. The Sh. 9 billion will be included in this year’s National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF). According to Machogu, the NG-CDF will have to be increased to allow legislators to use the funds for constructing adequate classrooms for CBC students.