Mombasa: The implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) is gaining momentum with the start of nationwide training for 7,000 principals of senior secondary schools across the country.
According to Kenya News Agency, over 100 principals from public and private institutions attended a training session at the Coast Girls' Secondary School organized by the Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA). This training aims to facilitate a smooth transition for Grade Nine learners to senior secondary schools in 2026.
Speaking at Coast Girls Secondary School, Dr. Patrick Muma, the Decentralized Teacher Management Director of the Teachers Service Commission, stated that the training aimed to equip principals with the necessary knowledge to guide new learners and implement the CBC framework effectively by 2026. Dr. Muma emphasized the importance of principals being informed and prepared, as they play a major role in the education of new Grade 10 learners.
Dr. Muma highlighted three key pathways for learners in Grade 10: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM); Arts and Sports; and Social Sciences. He stressed the need for principals to understand the subjects and requirements for each pathway, particularly the STEM pathway, to ensure effective implementation of the transition.
Mr. Abuko Thomas, the Principal of Bombolulu Secondary School, expressed his appreciation for the training, stating its importance for understanding the CBC pathways, which differ significantly from the former 8-4-4 system. He noted that the government recommends at least 60 percent of students pursue STEM subjects due to challenges in science performance.
Robert Atsiaya, a Physics trainer from Kiambu County, added that by the end of the training, every principal should be aware of the incoming learners and the subjects available for them. He mentioned that further training would also be conducted for teachers to manage the changes arising from the shift from the 8-4-4 system to CBC.