Nairobi: A sensitization forum has helped parents in Suba North Sub County understand senior school pathways under the competency-based curriculum (CBC).
According to Kenya News Agency, the forum was convened by an organization dubbed Homa Bay County Education Network in partnership with the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD).
The organization's officials, Rolex Ong'ute and Julius Omuga, noted that many parents were not familiar with the various pathways their children would transition into. Omuga highlighted that the new curriculum significantly differs from the 8-4-4 system, which was well understood by many parents, prompting the need for outreach to bridge this knowledge gap.
Ong'ute emphasized the importance of parental engagement in the implementation of the CBC, stating, "We're explaining the pathways of the new CBC to parents and children to help them understand what it entails during transition." The initiative took place at Osodo primary school in Suba North constituency, targeting parents of current Grade 9 learners who will be joining senior school next year.
The main pathways under discussion included Arts and Sports Science, Social Sciences, and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). Schools for transition are categorized based on performance assessment methods, such as internal continuous assessments and summative exams. Prior to transition, the government, through the Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC), will provide a questionnaire for learners and check for available slots in schools for placement.
Mr. Omuga also mentioned considerations for special needs, equity, inclusivity, and geographical balance, urging parents to attend future forums. "The meetings are beneficial to both parents and learners. All education stakeholders are required to be brought on board for a successful implementation of the new system," he said.
Melen Nyaboke, head teacher at Osodo primary school, called on parents to support their children's learning by providing necessary materials, noting that the CBC program emphasizes practical work. "Learners are required to buy assessment books for keeping performance records. We're appealing to the parents to help us implement the CBC effectively," Nyaboke stated.
Parents Eunice Adhiambo and Isaiah Ambogo expressed that the meeting was enlightening, offering them insights into the new education system. Adhiambo remarked, "We have learnt different pathways of CBC which will enable us to guide our children on the pathways in senior school. At least I have a glimpse of what CBC entails."
During the function, the team distributed CBC pathways fliers to the parents for reference.