The Ministry of Education (MoE) has officially commenced preparations for the rollout of Grade 10 under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) in 2026.
As part of these efforts, a sensitisation and training initiative for secondary school principals has been launched to ensure school leadership is well prepared to implement the new senior secondary education phase.
Education officials emphasised the importance of early planning and capacity building during a forum held in Meru County, which brought together 399 school heads from across the region.
The principals in attendance expressed support for the government’s move to begin laying the groundwork for the next stage of CBC implementation, describing it as a timely and progressive step for the country’s education system.
The new CBC senior secondary phase focuses on developing learners’ intellectual abilities while nurturing talents and practical skills.
It introduces a more personalised and holistic approach to education, allowing students to pursue one of three key pathways: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), Social Sciences, or Performing Arts and Sports.
While school heads welcomed the curriculum’s learner-centred approach, they also raised key concerns and suggestions during the forum.
One primary recommendation was the decentralisation of teacher training.
The principals urged the government to bring training closer to schools by conducting sessions at the sub-county level.
They emphasised that this approach would allow more teachers to participate and better understand the CBC framework, teaching methodologies, and assessment strategies.
In addition to teacher preparedness, the issue of infrastructure was a major point of discussion.
Many principals highlighted the lack of adequate facilities, particularly in sports and the arts, as a potential obstacle to successful implementation.
They called on the government to invest in upgrading school infrastructure to support the diverse learning pathways required by the CBC.
The MoE is conducting a nationwide assessment of secondary schools to evaluate their readiness for the Grade 10 intake.
This includes checking the availability of classrooms, laboratories, sports fields, studios, and other resources necessary to offer the three learning pathways effectively.
As the 2026 deadline approaches, education stakeholders must continue working together to ensure a smooth and effective transition to the senior secondary school phase.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to supporting schools through policy guidance, capacity building, and resource allocation. This is part of the broader mission to equip learners with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to thrive in the 21st century.
By John Majau
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