Trans-Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has called for the abolition of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), expressing concerns about its impact on the future of students. Speaking on Saturday, July 20, in Kitale town, Natembeya voiced his apprehensions regarding the curriculum, highlighting the lack of understanding among parents, students, and other education stakeholders.
Governor Natembeya pointed out that the CBC has several inherent flaws that make it challenging for the government to implement effectively. “One of the flaws we have is that the current grading system under CBC will make it difficult for our children to compete internationally,” he stated. Natembeya’s critique underscores the disparity between the education system in Kenya and those in other countries, which could potentially hinder Kenyan students’ competitiveness on a global scale.
A significant concern raised by Natembeya is the preference of politicians to enroll their children in international schools, leaving ordinary Kenyans to contend with the CBC. “Most politicians have taken their children to international schools, leaving Kenyans to suffer in their own country,” he remarked. This statement highlights the perceived inequities within the education system, where those in power are seen to have better educational opportunities for their children while the majority of the population is left to navigate a flawed system.
The governor also criticized the government for its poor management of the education sector, suggesting that there is a lack of clear direction. “Considering what is happening in our education sector, I believe there might be a hidden agenda to undermine the sector, ensuring that Kenyans remain illiterate for the benefit of a few selfish leaders,” Natembeya said. His assertion points to a potential systemic issue where the education system is not being prioritized, possibly for the benefit of a select few.
Natembeya’s call to action is clear: the government must address the issues within the education sector, particularly those related to the CBC. He warned that if the government fails to resolve these issues, he would mobilize parents to keep their children out of school. This drastic measure indicates the level of frustration and concern among stakeholders regarding the current state of the education system.
The CBC was introduced in Kenya to replace the traditional 8-4-4 system, aiming to focus on developing students’ competencies and skills rather than merely assessing their academic knowledge. However, since its implementation, the CBC has faced criticism from various quarters, including teachers, parents, and education experts. Critics argue that the curriculum is resource-intensive, requiring significant financial and infrastructural investments, which many schools and parents cannot afford.
Additionally, there are concerns about the preparedness of teachers to deliver the new curriculum effectively. Many teachers have reported insufficient training and support, making it challenging to transition from the old system to the CBC. This has resulted in inconsistencies in the quality of education being delivered across different schools.
Governor Natembeya’s remarks reflect a broader sentiment among stakeholders who feel that the CBC, while well-intentioned, has not been effectively implemented and may not be the best fit for Kenya’s educational needs. The call for abolition and a return to the drawing board highlights the need for a comprehensive review and possible overhaul of the current education system to ensure it meets the needs of all students and prepares them adequately for the future.
In conclusion, Governor George Natembeya’s advocacy for the abolition of the CBC brings to the forefront critical issues within Kenya’s education sector. His concerns about the curriculum’s flaws, coupled with the inequities in access to quality education, underscore the need for urgent action to address these challenges. As the debate continues, it is imperative for the government and all stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue to find a sustainable solution that ensures every Kenyan child has access to a quality education that prepares them for the future.
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