Govt Issues JSS Transition Updates as CBC Takes Center Stage.
Kenya is gradually phasing out the 8-4-4 education system, implementing vital reforms to ensure the smooth adoption of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
The final Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams under the 8-4-4 system will take place in 2027, completing the country’s transition to CBC.
The Government Spokesperson, Dr. Isaac Mwaura, reported that the academic calendar for Junior Secondary School transition began on January 6, 2025.
During a media briefing in Nairobi, he highlighted that the first cohort of CBC learners had joined Grade 9, marking a critical milestone in this educational reform.
The cohort will progress to Grade 10 in 2026, where they can choose from three pathways: Social Sciences, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), and the Arts and Sports.
“To support this transition, the government has constructed 14,500 classrooms out of the targeted 16,000.”
Infrastructure, Funding Support and Teacher Shortages
To support this transition, the government has constructed 14,500 classrooms out of the targeted 16,000.
Dr. Mwaura noted that these achievements were made possible through the allocation of Sh11 billion to schools, supplemented by Sh6.8 billion from the National Government-Constituency Development Fund. An additional 7,290 classrooms are planned to accommodate the growing CBC enrollment.
The government has also prioritized staffing to ensure the seamless implementation of CBC. Dr. Mwaura stated that 56,000 permanent and pensionable teachers, alongside 20,000 interns, have been employed.
Furthermore, 8,707 teachers have been replaced to maintain continuity in learning, with plans underway to hire an additional 6,000 educators.
“This demonstrates our dedication to delivering quality education by ensuring every child is taught by qualified teachers in a conducive environment,” affirmed Dr. Mwaura.
To guarantee uninterrupted learning, the Ministry of Education and the National Treasury are disbursing Sh48 billion in capitation grants to primary and junior secondary schools for the first term of 2025.
Additionally, 9,926,618 textbooks have been procured and distributed to Grade 9 learners. Dr. Mwaura emphasized that the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) has been tasked with ensuring that all instructional materials are adequately supplied.
Innovations in Examinations and Inclusivity
The government has introduced a mid-year KCSE exam series starting in July 2025. This initiative supports students who missed exams due to illness or hardship, ensuring a smooth transition during the 8-4-4 phase-out.
Dr. Mwaura also announced plans to replace braille machines with orbit readers for visually impaired candidates, reinforcing the government’s commitment to inclusivity.
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Addressing concerns about the resurgence of banned levies in some senior schools, Dr. Mwaura warned that action would be taken against those responsible. He reiterated that the government is committed to ensuring equity and inclusivity in education.
Dr. Mwaura concluded by emphasizing that Kenya is laying a strong foundation for a transformative CBC framework.
By addressing infrastructure gaps, enhancing resource availability, and protecting learner rights, the education system is being redefined to meet the demands of the modern world.
Govt Issues JSS Transition Updates as CBC Takes Center Stage.
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