As Kenya gears up for a significant shift in its education system, the government is taking decisive steps to ensure a seamless transition for Grade 8 pupils moving into Grade 9 next year. Principal Secretary for Basic Education, Dr. Belio Kipsang, has outlined a comprehensive plan aimed at addressing various challenges and preparing students adequately for their new academic journey.
In a recent statement, PS Kipsang revealed that the government is embarking on a major recruitment drive, with plans to hire 20,000 new teachers specifically for Junior Secondary. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the quality of education and support students during this critical phase of their academic careers. The recruitment drive, which is set to commence soon, is expected to bolster the teaching workforce significantly, ensuring that each student receives the attention and guidance they need.
The Ministry of Education has already begun implementing key measures to facilitate this transition. Notably, a pilot assessment was conducted in July to familiarize Grade 8 pupils with the types of evaluations they will encounter in Grade 9. This early exposure aims to alleviate any apprehensions and help students adapt to the new assessment format.
In addition to teacher recruitment, substantial infrastructure improvements are underway. Dr. Kipsang highlighted that the government is constructing 11,000 new classrooms across the country to accommodate the incoming Grade 9 students. This effort is supported by the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF), which is responsible for the construction of 5,000 additional classrooms. By the time the new academic year begins, a total of 16,000 classrooms will be available, ensuring that the increased number of students will have access to adequate learning spaces.
During his visit to Masikonde Primary School in Narok Central Subcounty, Dr. Kipsang inspected the ongoing construction of classrooms and reassured the public of the government’s commitment to improving educational infrastructure. He emphasized that 11,000 classrooms are already at various stages of completion, with the remaining 5,000 expected to be finalized soon.
The Ministry of Education has also allocated an additional Sh1 billion specifically for schools in Nairobi County to address the unique challenges faced by urban schools. This funding will be instrumental in enhancing educational facilities and resources in the region.
On the curriculum front, Dr. Kipsang announced that the Kenya Institute for Curriculum Development (KICD) has finalized the necessary textbooks for Grade 9. These books will be distributed to schools between October and November, with each student receiving a personal copy, ensuring that they have the required resources for their studies.
Moreover, the government is preparing to support schools financially through capitation funds. A total of Sh21.8 billion has been allocated for this purpose, with Sh6 billion designated for Junior Secondary, Sh14 billion for secondary schools, and Sh1.8 billion for primary schools. This financial support is crucial for maintaining and improving educational standards across the country.
As part of the transition plan, a replica of the Grade 9 examination will be conducted alongside regular exams in November. This initiative aims to give both teachers and students a clear understanding of the assessment process, enabling them to prepare more effectively for the actual Grade 9 exams.
Dr. Kipsang’s announcement reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that the transition from Grade 8 to Grade 9 is as smooth and successful as possible. By addressing infrastructure needs, recruiting additional teachers, and providing financial support, the Ministry of Education is laying the groundwork for a robust educational framework that will benefit students and educators alike.
