Ministry of Education Denies Plans to Extend JSS to Grade 10 & Transferring Teachers
The Ministry of Education responded on Monday to reports circulating on social media, which claimed that several radical reforms had been made to the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) in Kenya.
In an official statement, the Ministry labeled the document, which alleged that junior school would be extended, as false. The Ministry urged the public to disregard this misleading information spreading on various online platforms.
The Ministry’s clarification was issued just as the fake memo gained attention online. The fabricated document outlined a series of supposed reforms, causing widespread speculation.
Alleged Reforms in the Fake Circular
Among the false claims in the memo was the extension of junior school to grade 10. Additionally, it suggested:
- Converting sub-county schools into junior schools
- Funding primary schools without nearby sub-county high schools
- Absorbing junior school teachers into a specific junior school teaching structure
The Ministry’s statement comes at a time when Kenya is fully transitioning away from the 8-4-4 education system, which has been in place for decades.
The CBC, introduced to replace the 8-4-4 system, has not been without its difficulties. In 2021, prominent lawyer Nelson Havi challenged the CBC in court, citing concerns about the new system.
Court Ruling on CBC Challenge
However, in June, a three-judge bench dismissed Havi’s petition. The judges instructed the Education Cabinet Secretary to amend education laws to align with the CBC structure within 120 days.
Some members of the public have expressed concerns over the CBC, pointing out perceived flaws in the system. They criticized the government for allegedly failing to conduct thorough research before rolling out the new curriculum.
The CBC, launched nationally in 2019, follows a 2-6-3-3-3 system and is seen as a potential game-changer for Kenya’s education. As part of its implementation, the government is preparing to transition grade 8 students to grade 9.
Progress on Junior School Construction and Preparedness
During a recent visit to Nyandarua County, Education Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang highlighted the government’s efforts to complete the construction of 11,000 classrooms nationwide.
These classrooms are crucial for the successful implementation of junior schools.
Additionally, Kipsang noted that instructional materials had been provided to all junior and primary schools, and teachers have undergone training to ensure they are well-prepared for the transition.
Ministry of Education Denies Plans to Extend JSS to Grade 10 & Transferring Teachers
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