Is CBC Working in Kenya?
Written by Obwoge Joseph on October 23, 2023
The Competence-Based Curriculum (CBC), introduced in Kenya in 2017, was envisioned as a transformation of the traditional 8-4-4 education system. With the aim of reducing the overreliance on exams and fostering a more skill-based approach to learning, the CBC was met with a mix of hope and skepticism.
CBC Hopes vs. Challenges:
The idea behind CBC was to prepare Kenyan students for the real world by nurturing practical skills and talents alongside academic knowledge. However, the implementation of the CBC has been fraught with significant challenges, some of which appear to overshadow its potential benefits.
1. Rushed Implementation:
A primary issue plaguing the CBC has been the speed at which it was introduced. Many argue that it was launched without the proper groundwork in place. Essential elements such as adequate textbooks, sufficient classrooms, and a trained teaching workforce were not available to support its rollout. These fundamental requirements should have been addressed before the curriculum’s full implementation.
2. Funding Disparities:
A noticeable gap emerged between private and public schools in the implementation of CBC. Private institutions had a financial advantage, which enabled them to adapt to the curriculum changes more readily. In contrast, public schools heavily depended on government funding, a process often marred by delays and financial irregularities.
3. Cost Implications:
CBC brought increased costs to parents, who were already grappling with the financial burden of education. The need for new textbooks, additional school uniforms, laboratory equipment, and higher school fees put pressure on families. This financial aspect, combined with other costs, has raised questions about accessibility to quality education.
4. Transition to Junior Secondary Schools (JSS):
One of the unique aspects of CBC was the transition of grade 6 pupils to junior secondary schools (JSS). This process posed a significant challenge to the education system. President Uhuru Kenyatta’s government aimed to accommodate these pupils within existing secondary schools, while President William Ruto’s administration continued this move. However, Ruto’s government chose to establish Junior Secondary Schools within primary school premises to avoid mixing 12-year-olds with 18-year-olds.
5. Scarcity of Teachers:
A critical issue that CBC faced was the shortage of qualified teachers. Unlike high school teachers, junior secondary school teachers were expected to teach a broader range of subjects, often extending beyond their specialization. This created a significant challenge for educators who found themselves teaching subjects for which they had no prior training. Many resorted to self-study and online resources to prepare coursework.
The Way Forward:
For CBC to live up to its intended goals and overcome these challenges, the Kenyan government must act decisively. Failure to address these issues could have severe repercussions for the education system and the nation’s ability to produce a skilled workforce. A comprehensive reevaluation of CBC and its alignment with the evolving educational landscape is imperative.
In conclusion, the effectiveness of the Competence-Based Curriculum (CBC) in Kenya remains a subject of debate. While its promise was to provide a more practical and skill-oriented education, it has faced numerous challenges, including rushed implementation, funding disparities, increased costs, the transition to junior secondary schools, and the scarcity of teachers. A focused, systematic approach to tackle these concerns is essential to ensure the success of CBC in achieving its intended goals.
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