Mps debate adjournment motion regarding Competency-Based Curriculum

𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫
𝐓𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝟏𝟕𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒

Members of the National Assembly have expressed concerns over the preparedness of the education sector to transition the pioneer Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) class to Grade 9 in January 2025. 

Speaking during a debate on the adjournment motion, lawmakers highlighted challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, a shortage of teachers, and inconsistencies in curriculum materials.

Hon. Robert Mbui, who moved the motion, emphasized the need for urgent action. He said, "the transition to Grade 9 poses a significant challenge for both parents and the education sector."

"Additionally, the practicality of putting up the classrooms and other facilities like laboratories by December 2024 before the start of Grade 9 lessons in January 2025 is in doubt. At present, the transition is also marred with the issue of a shortage of JSS teachers crucial to the success of the programme," stated Hon. Mbui.

While seconding the motion, Hon. James Nyikal said, "The infrastructure is not ready, and there is a severe shortage of teachers qualified to teach the CBC curriculum."

Hon. John Gitonga called for the Ministry of Education to provide a clear plan for ensuring that schools have the necessary infrastructure and teachers to support the transition. "It is not enough to simply say that the transition will happen," he said. "We need to see concrete steps being taken to make it a success."

In his part, Hon. Nabii Nabwire highlighted the issue of inconsistencies in the curriculum materials developed by the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD). "Teachers have reported that the books are full of errors and do not align with the actual curriculum," he said. "This is a major obstacle to effective teaching and learning."

Hon. Eve Obara and Hon. Jack Wamboka also raised concerns about the shortage of teachers and the lack of adequate training for those who are currently teaching the CBC curriculum. "We cannot expect teachers who were trained in the old system to be able to effectively teach the CBC," said Hon. Obara.

The Chairperson of the Education Committee, Hon. Julius Melly said, "teachers need to receive proper training and support."

The Education Cabinet Secretary is will appear before the National Assembly tomorrow, Wednesday, 18th September 2024 to responsed to legislators questions on the state of the education sector.