Professor Julius Kibet Bitok Takes Over as Principal Secretary for Basic Education

Professor Julius Kibet Bitok Takes Over as Principal Secretary for Basic Education.

Professor Julius Kibet Bitok has officially assumed the role of Principal Secretary (PS) for Basic Education, succeeding Dr. Belio Kipsang. Dr. Kipsang, who has now been reassigned to the State Department for Immigration and Citizen Services, leaves at a time when the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) is entering a crucial transition phase.

During the handover meeting on Wednesday, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba expressed confidence in the new PS. He emphasized the importance of Prof. Bitok’s role in ensuring that learners receive quality education and pledged full support from the education sector.

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“The sector has full confidence in you. I look forward to your contribution to this industry to ensure we serve our students effectively and we will support you,” he said.

Dr. Kipsang’s Assurance and Transition Reflections

Having served in the education sector for 29 years, Dr. Kipsang assured his successor of a solid foundation, particularly in facilitating the transition of junior school learners to senior school in January 2026.

He conveyed confidence in Prof. Bitok’s ability to manage the final phases of Competency-Based Education (CBE). Now leading Immigration and Citizen Services, Dr. Kipsang lightheartedly invited his former colleagues to visit him for identification cards and travel documents, reflecting on his decade-long tenure in the Ministry of Education.

“I know him; he can deliver the remaining section of Competency-Based Education (CBE). I express my confidence in Prof. Bitok’s ability to manage the system’s final phases,” Dr. Kipsang said.

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Prof. Bitok steps into office amid ongoing debates regarding CBC implementation and the government’s higher education funding model, which the High Court recently ruled unconstitutional. He inherits a system facing challenges such as public concerns over CBC, teacher preparedness, and school infrastructure.