George Natembeya Questions CBC Suitability, Questions Grading System and Examinations.
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has raised significant concerns regarding the practicality and implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
He described it as confusing and ineffective, arguing that it fails to adequately assess students’ progress due to unclear grading and examination systems.
Natembeya pointed out that the Ministry of Education has not delivered on its promises of free education, citing delays in releasing capitation funds. He emphasized that these shortcomings undermine the curriculum’s potential to benefit Kenyan students.
Criticism of CBC’s Clarity and Implementation
The governor expressed his confusion about CBC, claiming even parents, teachers, and government officials find it hard to comprehend.
Natembeya suggested that CBC might have been designed by individuals intent on denying Kenyan children the opportunity to become educated and empowered.
He highlighted the importance of education as a societal equalizer, stating that his own position today is a result of access to quality education. He questioned why a task force had to be formed if the system was indeed effective.
CBC Grading and Examinations
Natembeya described the examination and grading systems under CBC as nonsensical and ineffective. He observed that some students’ examination results were released without their awareness, reflecting a lack of proper communication and structure.
The grading system was also criticized for failing to provide actionable feedback. According to the governor, phrases such as “below expectations” or “exceeding expectations” are unhelpful and demotivate students, as there is no clear sense of achievement or failure. This, he argued, leads students to take school less seriously.
| Key Criticisms of CBC Grading |
|---|
| Lack of actionable feedback |
| Vague grading categories |
| Difficulty in tracking progress |
Delayed Education Funding
Natembeya also accused the Ministry of Education of failing to fulfill its promise of free education, citing delayed capitation funds as a major obstacle.
He noted that students in public schools, including those in supposedly affordable day schools, are often sent home due to unpaid fees. This, he stated, undermines the claim that education from Class 1 to Form 4 is free.
The governor made these remarks during the burial ceremony of Bishop Stephen Wamuti Njuguna in Muhuti Village, Cherangany. He used the platform to highlight the broader challenges facing the education sector in Kenya.
Natembeya’s criticism of CBC comes shortly after a heated exchange with National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah.
The confrontation, which took place during the burial of National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula’s mother, was centered around cases of abductions.
Natembeya had challenged President William Ruto to address the issue, a comment that sparked disagreement with Ichung’wah.
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Summary of Natembeya’s Position
- CBC lacks clarity and practicality, confusing stakeholders.
- The grading system is vague and ineffective.
- Delays in capitation funds undermine the promise of free education.
- Education should serve as an equalizer in society but is currently failing under CBC.
George Natembeya Questions CBC Suitability, Questions Grading System and Examinations.
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