Members of the National Assembly have expressed concerns over the preparedness of the education sector to transition from the pioneer Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) class to Grade 9 in January 2025.
Speaking during a debate on motion of adjournment, lawmakers argued that the education sector still lacked the necessary facilities to facilitate a smooth transition to CBC.
They said that some of the challenges facing the sector included inadequate infrastructure, a shortage of teachers and inconsistencies in curriculum materials.
Kathiani MP Robert Mbui, who moved the Motion, emphasized the need for urgent action to address the failures to ensure seamless transition.
He said the transition to Grade 9 poses a significant challenge for both parents and the education sector.
“Additionally, the practicality of putting up the classrooms and other facilities like laboratories by December 2024 before the start of Grade 9 lessons in January 2025 is in doubt.
“At present, the transition is also marred with the issue of a shortage of JSS teachers crucial to the success of the programme,” Mbui said.
While seconding the Motion, Seme MP James Nyikal said the infrastructure is not ready, and there is a severe shortage of teachers qualified to teach the CBC curriculum.
Tigania West MP John Gitonga called upon the Ministry of Education to provide a clear plan for ensuring that schools have the necessary infrastructure and teachers to support the transition.
He noted that it is not enough to simply say that the transition will happen and concrete steps should be taken to ensure success.
Lugari MP Nabii Nabwera highlighted the issue of inconsistencies in the curriculum materials developed by the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) saying teachers have reported that the books are full of errors and do not align with the actual curriculum.
Kasipul Kabondo MP Eve Obara also raised concerns about the shortage of teachers and the lack of adequate training for those currently teaching the CBC curriculum.
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