- Baringo sign writer Vivian Jelagat says the Competency-Based Education is opening opportunities for talented learners overlooked by the 8-4-4 system.
- After missing out on a teaching career, she built a successful livelihood through sign writing under her father’s mentorship.
- She believes CBE will help thousands of young Kenyans turn practical skills into meaningful careers.
For 25-year-old Vivian Jelagat, the Competency-Based Education (CBE) represents more than an education reform. It symbolises hope for thousands of talented young Kenyans whose abilities were never fully recognised under the 8-4-4 system.
Today, Vivian earns a living as a sign writer in Baringo County, but her journey to success was shaped by disappointment, resilience and determination.
Vivian had always dreamed of becoming a teacher.
However, after scoring a C- at Eldama Ravine Girls Secondary School, she felt her ambitions had been cut short.
“I wanted to become a teacher, but after scoring a C-minus, it felt as though the education system had concluded that I had nothing meaningful to contribute to society,” she said.
She believes CBE is changing that narrative by recognising talents and practical skills alongside academic achievement.
Vivian learned sign writing from her father, who had built a successful career designing and painting commercial signs for businesses and schools.
Working alongside him during her early years, she gradually mastered the craft while earning a share of the income from completed projects.
“After my dream of becoming a teacher faded, my father encouraged me to learn sign writing. He became my mentor and gave me confidence to build a career from my talent,” she recalled.
Overcoming obstacles
Vivian hoped to pursue formal training in sign writing but soon discovered that no institution in Kenya offered specialised training in the trade.
She enrolled for an Art and Design programme in Nairobi but later withdrew after realising it did not adequately prepare her for professional sign writing.
Despite the setback, she continued improving her skills through practical experience.
Her breakthrough came after securing a KSh40,000 contract to produce sign writing for Poror High School near Eldama Ravine.
The project strengthened both her confidence and her growing business.
Success did not shield Vivian from criticism.
She says many people still believe sign writing is a profession better suited to men.
“People often question why a woman would choose this kind of work. They see paint-covered overalls and assume I should be doing something else,” she said.
Nevertheless, she credits her father and fiancé for supporting her career and encouraging her to pursue her passion.
CBE and the future of talent
Vivian believes the CBEWhas the potential to unlock talents that previously remained hidden under an examination-oriented education system.
Unlike the 8-4-4 curriculum, which placed significant emphasis on examinations and memorisation, CBE encourages learners to develop practical skills, creativity, innovation and problem-solving abilities.
Education experts argue that the curriculum can help produce graduates who become innovators, entrepreneurs and job creators rather than relying solely on formal employment.
Vivian hopes the reforms will encourage more young people to pursue careers aligned with their talents.
“Not everyone is meant to become a doctor, lawyer or teacher. Some people are gifted creators, builders and innovators. CBE is giving such talents an opportunity to flourish,” she said.
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Her story stands as a reminder that success is not determined solely by examination grades but also by the courage to develop one’s skills and pursue opportunities beyond the traditional classroom.
By Our Reporter
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