The government has distributed 9.9 million textbooks to Grade 9 learners nationwide to facilitate the transition to the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
Ministry of Education Directorate Head of Junior Secondary Schools (JSS) Hassan Duale confirmed the release during a visit to Kangoya Primary School in Kiambu County to monitor school opening and also assessment of ongoing transition to Grade 9.
Speaking during the visit, Duale emphasized the critical role of textbooks in supporting the education of over three million junior secondary learners.
“The government has distributed 9.9 million Grade 9 textbooks, and Kangoya Primary has diligently stocked, covered, and distributed these books to students,” he said.
The provision of textbooks aims to address a key challenge in the rollout of the CBC by ensuring that learners have equitable access to essential learning materials.
Duale noted that the government has prioritized the seamless progression of students under the new curriculum, with textbooks being a central pillar of this effort.
During his tour of Kangoya Primary, Duale inspected the school’s facilities and addressed concerns raised by teachers and parents regarding infrastructure for Grade 9 learners.
The school is currently benefiting from a government classroom construction program, with a new structure expected to be completed within a month.
“Your school is part of Phase Three of the construction plan. We are fast-tracking the completion of your classroom to ensure learners have adequate space for their studies,” Duale assured.
On the other hand, Kangoya Primary and Junior School Principal Faith Mwai acknowledged the positive impact of the textbook distribution but highlighted the need for continued support in addressing teachers and resource shortages.
“So far, we have 169 JSS students and 418 primary education students making it a total of 587 students. However, we only have 20 teachers and very few lockers so we are hopeful that the government will continue to support us during this transition,” Mwai said.
Duale’s visit to Kangoya Primary is part of a broader nationwide initiative to monitor the implementation of the CBC and ensure the success of junior secondary education.
Lastly, the Ministry of Education has reiterated its commitment to providing resources, infrastructure, and teacher support to enable learners to thrive in the new system.
By Sylvia Wanjohi
