CSOs: The forgotten soldiers of Kenya's education system driving curriculum success

Every dawn, Curriculum Support Officers (CSOs) set out with files, laptops, and determination, traversing rough terrain to reach schools in Kenya’s most remote corners. Their work is rarely seen, yet it underpins the success of classrooms and learning outcomes across the country.

When new curricula are rolled out, CSOs are the ones who train teachers. When schools falter, they provide guidance. When learners’ performance dips, they spend days in the field mentoring educators. They inspect, coach, monitor, prepare reports, and often sacrifice weekends and family time to keep the education system running.

Despite carrying the heaviest burden in curriculum implementation, CSOs remain among the least rewarded. Their reports shape national education policy, yet their own welfare is neglected. Many spend personal resources on transport, airtime, internet bundles, and even accommodation, just to ensure schools receive the support they deserve.