Government to Construct 18,000 Classrooms for Grade 9 Learners, Says Education PS Belio Kipsang

Education Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang announced the government’s plan to construct 18,000 classrooms for Grade 9 learners in junior schools by next year. This initiative aims to ensure a smooth transition from Grade 8 to Grade 9, addressing the increasing demand for educational infrastructure.

Kipsang highlighted that 11,000 classrooms are being developed with the support of development partners, while the remaining 7,000 are being built through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). “I would like to announce and assure the country that we are adequately preparing for the transition from Grade 8 to 9 next year. We are currently constructing all the required infrastructure, and there is no cause for alarm,” he stated.

In addition to the infrastructure development, Kipsang emphasized the recruitment of 56,000 teachers to support the CBC’s successful implementation, with plans to hire 20,000 more in the near future. “We are also continuously reviewing the capacity of teachers in primary schools so that they are ready to support the junior secondary schools,” he added.

The government’s commitment to CBC’s success is further reflected in its collaboration with various partners, including teachers’ unions such as the Kenya National Union of Teachers (Knut) and the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (Kuppet). Kipsang noted that teachers had fully embraced the CBC and other educational reforms, ensuring a unified approach towards improving the education sector.

Kipsang’s announcement came during the official opening of the 96th Kenya Music Festival in Eldoret, presided over by Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii. The 12-day event, themed “Talent Development for Growth of Creative Economy,” has attracted 130,000 students and participants from various regions. The festival is hosted across 58 schools in Eldoret, showcasing the rich cultural and artistic talents of the youth.

President William Ruto’s administration has shown a strong commitment to the development of arts and talents. Kipsang reassured parents that the government is dedicated to overcoming the challenges faced by the CBC and ultimately making it a success. The Music Festival, a major event in the education sector, reflects this commitment and the government’s efforts to invest in building infrastructure in major schools to host such events and other educational forums.

Professor Fredrick Ngala, Chairman of the Kenya Music Festival, shared the vision of elevating the festival to an international level. This year, teams from Uganda, Tanzania, and a university from the UK are participating in the event in Eldoret. “We are also advancing the use of technology in the festival so that parents at home and other Kenyans can easily access what we are doing,” Ngala said.

The festival not only provides a platform for students to showcase their talents but also fosters cultural exchange and collaboration with international participants. The integration of technology in the festival enhances accessibility and engagement, allowing a broader audience to experience the performances and activities.

As the government continues to invest in educational infrastructure and teacher capacity, the future of the CBC looks promising. The construction of 18,000 classrooms for Grade 9 learners marks a significant milestone in ensuring a seamless transition within the education system. With continued support from development partners, educational unions, and the community, Kenya is poised to achieve its educational goals and nurture the talents of its young generation.