The competency-based curriculum transition in Kenya has been faced by a myriad of challenges, including lack of teachers and classrooms. These challenges threaten to erode the gains made as a result of phasing out the 8-4-4 system. CBC is mean’t to address the deficiencies of the old education system through emphasis on practical skills that require adequate facilities and appropriate teaching methodologies.
Challenges Facing the Transition
1. Shortage of Teachers and Classrooms
A major challenge to the actualization of CBC is in inadequate teachers and classrooms. If these two critical concerns remain unaddressed, education quality may not see the much-needed improvement.
2. Infrastructure for Junior Secondary School (JSS)
Time is running out to get proper infrastructure in place for JSS, that’s Grades 7, 8, and 9. There is a controversy on whether Grade 9 students should be in primary or transit into secondary schools.
Recent Developments
Decision by Former Education CS Ezekiel Machogu
Before his sacking, former Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu had resolved that the 1.3 million Grade 8 learners going to grade nine in January should remain in primary schools, a move in tandem with a resolution by the Presidential Working Party of Education Reforms.
Differing Opinion from Education Technocrats
Education officials have argued that since there will be no Form One in January, Grade 9 learners should be mobilized towards the utilisation of facilities in secondary schools. The government has set aside Sh3.5 billion for building another 1,000 additional classrooms countrywide.
Encouraging Steps
KNEC’s Intervention
The Kenya National Examinations Council is a step ahead, with the piloting for the Grade 9 Kenya Junior School Education Assessment taking place from July 15 to 19. The 5,875 learners targeted in this pilot are spread across 235 schools, for assessing Readiness for the Implementation of KJSEA; the replacement examination for the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education examination.