The Kenyan government has reaffirmed its readiness to transition Grade 8 students to Grade 9 under the Competence-Based Curriculum (CBC), a critical step in completing the full education cycle across all levels. This assurance was provided by Principal Secretary for Education, Belio Kipsang, during an assessment tour in Nyandarua County, where he examined the country’s preparedness for this crucial transition. The government aims to ensure a smooth continuation from junior school to senior school by January 2026.
Comprehensive Preparations for Grade 9 Transition
According to PS Kipsang, the Ministry of Education has made significant strides in preparing schools for the transition. Key among the preparations is the distribution of instructional materials to all junior and primary schools across the nation. Additionally, extensive teacher training has been conducted to equip educators with the necessary skills to effectively implement the CBC.
Kipsang emphasized that the ultimate goal is to complete the full cycle for all three levels of CBC – primary, junior secondary, and senior secondary. The government has laid out a clear roadmap that ensures the transition of junior secondary learners to senior school by 2026, marking a major milestone in the country’s education reforms.
“We are on track to achieve the transition target, and all systems are in place to support our learners and teachers through the process,” said PS Kipsang.
Infrastructure Development and Capitation Funds
As part of the transition process, the government is constructing 11,000 classrooms nationwide to fully implement the junior secondary education system. These classrooms are a vital component of the infrastructure needed to accommodate the growing number of students entering Grade 9 under the CBC framework.
In addition to infrastructure, the government has allocated KSh 3,000 per student as capitation funding, which will be used for maintenance and to furnish desks in schools. The capitation fund is intended to support schools in ensuring a conducive learning environment, addressing essential needs such as the upkeep of classrooms and provision of basic facilities.
Piloting Assessments to Prepare Learners
The Ministry of Education has already conducted an initial pilot assessment for Grade 9 learners, which will help both teachers and students familiarize themselves with the type of evaluations the learners will face. Kipsang noted that the results of this pilot will guide the preparation for the full-scale assessment in 2025.
Another pilot assessment is scheduled later this year for Grade 6 learners, which will mirror the final examination these students will undertake in November 2025. This upcoming assessment will also provide a framework for Grade 10 placement in January 2026, with a focus on determining the learners’ pathways in STEM, humanities, creatives, and sports.
Pathway Freedom for Learners
In a significant departure from the traditional education model, CBC offers learners the freedom to choose their learning pathway based on their strengths and interests. Kipsang explained that every school will offer at least two pathways, with STEM being a compulsory option.
“Unlike the current system where school choices define many learning categories, CBC gives learners more autonomy. The pathways allow them to focus on their talents and career aspirations early on, equipping them for success in a global environment,” Kipsang said.
Focus on STEM Education and Laboratory Construction
The government is placing particular emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, recognizing its importance in preparing students for the rapidly evolving technological landscape. As part of this focus, the government has committed to constructing laboratories in all schools, starting in January 2024, to enhance STEM learning.
Currently, around 1,600 junior secondary schools are without laboratories. To address this gap, PS Kipsang announced plans to introduce virtual laboratories, a move aimed at leveraging technology to provide quality STEM education even in schools lacking physical lab facilities.
School Safety Measures and DNA Matching for Endarasha Fire Victims
On a more somber note, PS Kipsang addressed the recent fire incident at Endarasha Academy, where all the victims have been positively identified through DNA matching with their parents. He also revealed plans to revise the schools’ safety manual, transforming it into a legal framework that includes punitive measures for non-compliance with safety regulations.
“The safety of our learners is paramount. We are taking every necessary step to ensure that schools adhere to safety standards to prevent such tragedies in the future,” Kipsang added.
As Kenya continues its transition to the CBC, the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure, enhancing teacher training, and ensuring student safety reflects its determination to build a more dynamic, learner-focused education system that prepares young people for the challenges of the 21st century.
