CBC Transition: Gaps Between Public and Private Schools

CBC Transition: Gaps Between Public and Private Schools.

The transition from the 8-4-4 education system to the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) has brought to light significant disparities between public and private schools in Kenya.

This topic was discussed extensively on a radio talk show, where experts highlighted the challenges, achievements, and future outlook of CBC implementation.

The CBC aims to emphasize learners’ competencies and talents instead of traditional rote learning.

The curriculum comprises primary school, junior school, and senior school, followed by tertiary education.

Unlike the 8-4-4 system, which often prioritized exam performance, CBC introduces a learner-centered approach, focusing on individual abilities and practical application.

Bridging the Gap: Public vs. Private Schools

Private schools often have modern facilities, including advanced laboratories, libraries, and sports amenities, enabling them to implement CBC tasks like community service and extracurricular activities more effectively.

However, experts caution against generalizing all private schools as well-resourced, as some struggle with limited space and resources.

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On the other hand, public schools benefit from government funding and free access to facilities like agricultural shows and community lands for practical learning.

Despite these advantages, many public schools face challenges, such as inadequate infrastructure and limited access to the internet, hindering effective CBC implementation.

Challenges in Implementation

1. Teacher Training and Facilitation: Teachers, now referred to as facilitators, require continuous training to adapt to CBC’s requirements. Many have undergone multiple training sessions to align with the new curriculum.
2. Resource Disparity: Both private and public schools face resource gaps. Public schools often lack modern amenities, while private schools may struggle to fund expansions or maintain facilities.
3. Inclusivity: The curriculum aims to include learners with diverse needs and abilities. Authentic tasks, such as community service and practical projects, help identify and nurture individual talents.

Community Involvement and Local Resources

A key feature of CBC is its focus on community-based learning. Tasks such as market clean-ups, farm visits, and hospital outreaches are designed to teach practical skills and community responsibility.

Experts stressed the importance of utilizing locally available resources to make learning accessible and relevant, especially in underprivileged areas.

The conversation underscores the need for collaboration between public and private sectors to achieve equitable education.

While private schools can share best practices and facilities, public schools can leverage government support to enhance resource allocation and teacher training.

The Future of CBC

Despite its challenges, CBC has been hailed as a transformative approach to education. It promises to nurture well-rounded individuals equipped with practical skills for real-world application.

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Stakeholders are optimistic that continued investment in training, infrastructure, and community engagement will bridge the gaps and ensure the curriculum’s success nationwide.

As Kenya transitions into this new system, the emphasis remains on inclusivity, collaboration, and leveraging available resources to provide quality education for all learners.

CBC Transition: Gaps Between Public and Private Schools.

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