The Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) has revealed that it was forced to put an advert in newspapers after only 1,200 schools responded to its email requesting data on Grade 10 learners and their subject choices.
This request was made as part of an effort to ensure every Grade 10 student received the appropriate textbooks under the government’s one-to-one textbook policy.
The nonresponse had created challenges in the planning of textbook distribution for grade 10.
Prof. Charles Ong’ondo, Director of KICD, explained that the weak response prompted the institute to take further steps, including placing an advert in local newspapers to encourage schools to provide the necessary information.
The missing information is crucial for the next phase of the textbook distribution process. It will ensure that each student receives a textbook for every subject and help redistribute any excess textbooks. Schools that have received too many textbooks are also expected to return them for redistribution.
READ ALSO: KICD urges principals to submit updated Grade 10 enrollment data to fix textbook distribution gap
KICD has set a firm deadline of April 10, 2026, for schools to submit their data. In a recent notice, the institute directed schools that have yet to receive textbooks or have surplus books to contact KICD via email at bookdistribution@kicd.ac.ke for further assistance.
Prof. Ong’ondo emphasised that the initiative is part of ongoing efforts to ensure the government’s textbook policy is fully implemented by the 2026 academic year.
The KICD continues to urge all schools to promptly report any textbook shortages, ensuring the policy is implemented efficiently and equitably across the country.
By Obegi Malack
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