ELGEYO MARAKWET: Some 142 school principals from across Elgeyo Marakwet County have been trained on Competence-Based Education (CBC) and its implementation in readiness for the transition of grade 10 learners in 2026. The three-day training, which took place at Kaptagat Girls High School, was organized by the Centre for Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA).
According to Kenya News Agency, CEMASTEA representative George Kiruja stated that the objective of the training was to equip school heads with the necessary knowledge to manage the transition effectively. “This workshop is crucial because of the shift to a competency-based curriculum. We had three main objectives: first, to understand the CBC framework; second, to explore the design and implementation strategies required from teachers; and third, to address mentorship, career guidance, and the available pathways for students,” Kiruja explained.
Kiruja emphasized the government’s focus on the importance of education, particularly highlighting the emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) for the future. “The government aims for 60% of learners to transition into STEM pathways. This makes it essential to discuss with the principals what is required to ensure these pathways are available. We want to demystify the idea that implementing STEM subjects will require substantial new resources, as most schools already have the necessary facilities,” he said.
Michael Cheruiyot, chairman of school principals in Elgeyo Marakwet, acknowledged existing skepticism about CBC, noting that many had questioned its effectiveness. “However, when you look at CBC and compare it with the goals of Vision 2030, it becomes clear that the system is designed to equip students with specific talents tailored to their areas of interest,” Cheruiyot remarked. “These talents can be applied in real-life situations, ensuring that graduates leave the education system with skills relevant to the job market.”
Justus Kilimo, Principal of Tugumoi Secondary School, emphasized the importance of parental involvement in the success of the CBC system. “Teachers will play a significant role, but parents must also step in to nurture students as they choose their pathways. We are no longer skeptical. We have a better understanding of the curriculum, and what impresses me most is that CBC gives all learners an opportunity. It ensures that every student is accounted for through the three pathways: STEM, social sciences, and sports,” Kilimo stated.
Kilimo also highlighted challenges regarding performance arts, noting that most schools lack the necessary infrastructure for this pathway. “While CBC is a great system, the government needs to be fully prepared for its rollout. Without adequate facilities for performance arts, theaters in schools, and properly trained teachers, the system will not reach its full potential. The government must act swiftly to ensure a smooth transition for learners,” he stressed.
Agnes Kikunda, Principal of Kapkoros Girls High School, echoed similar sentiments about the pivotal role of parents, expressing satisfaction with the curriculum’s emphasis on parental involvement. “Parents will now have a direct influence on the decisions regarding their children’s pathways. By the time students reach senior school, they will have a portfolio detailing their strengths and interests,” Kikunda noted. “Parents have to be informed and involved in the process to ensure that their children follow the right path based on their abilities, interests, and past performance.”