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).
CEMASTEA representative George Kiruja said 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 said.
Kiruja highlighted the government’s focus on the importance of education, 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.
The chairman of school principals in Elgeyo Marakwet, Michael Cheruiyot, said there had been skepticism about CBC, with many questioning whether it will be effective.
“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 said
“These talents can be applied in real-life situations, ensuring that graduates leave the education system with skills relevant to the job market.”
The Principal of Tugumoi Secondary School, Justus Kilimo, said that parental involvement is key to 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 said.
Kilimo said the government addresses challenges regarding performance arts, as 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.
Kapkoros Girls High School Principal Agnes Kikunda echoed similar sentiments concerning the pivotal role of parents saying she was pleased that the role of parents has been reinvented in this curriculum.
“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 said.
“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.”
By Rennish Okong’o
