Speaking at KICC on January 20, 2025, Government Spokesperson Hon. Sen. (Dr.) Isaac Mwaura, CBS, highlighted the government’s commitment to reshaping education through the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). After 35 years of the 8-4-4 system, the transition to CBC is well underway, with the final KCSE exams for the outgoing system set for 2027.
The journey to CBC hit a major milestone on January 6, 2025, when the first cohort of learners joined Grade 9. These learners will advance to Grade 10 in 2026, where they will choose pathways in Social Sciences, STEM, or Arts and Sports. This new system allows students to focus on their strengths, paving the way for talent and career development.
To support the growing needs of the CBC, the government has made significant progress in improving infrastructure. Out of the targeted 16,000 classrooms, 14,500 have already been completed. Plans are in place to construct an additional 7,290 classrooms. These efforts have been supported by Kshs. 11 billion allocated to schools and Kshs. 6.8 billion to NG-CDF, showing the government’s commitment to delivering results.
The government has also prioritized addressing teacher shortages to ensure smooth learning. So far, 56,000 permanent teachers and 20,000 interns have been employed, while 8,707 teachers have been replaced. In addition, 6,000 more teachers will be recruited soon. These measures aim to create a strong and reliable workforce for the CBC system.
To enhance learning, Kshs. 48 billion in capitation grants has been disbursed for Term 1 of 2025. Furthermore, over 9.9 million textbooks have been distributed to Grade 9 learners. The Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development has been tasked with ensuring all schools receive the required materials on time.
The government is also focusing on inclusivity. Plans are underway to replace braille machines with orbit readers for visually impaired learners. Additionally, a mid-year KCSE exam will be introduced in July 2025, providing students with a second chance if they missed or wish to retake their exams.
Dr. Mwaura emphasized the government’s strict stance on illegal levies in schools. He warned administrators against violating the ban, reiterating that education must remain affordable and fair.
With these efforts, Kenya is taking bold steps to build a modern, inclusive, and learner-centered education system. The CBC is poised to prepare learners for a brighter future.
