- Under the CBC system, Mathematics will no longer be a compulsory subject.
- English/Kenya Sign Language, Kiswahili, Physical Education, and Community Service Learning remain mandatory.
- Students will select career pathways from 38 subjects upon returning for Term 2.
- Grade 9 placement to limit the number of students per school to encourage diversity.
- Three academic pathways introduced: STEM, Social Sciences, and Arts & Sports Science.
Education Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang has confirmed that Mathematics will no longer be compulsory in the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), a major shift from the 8-4-4 system. However, students will still be required to study English or Kenya Sign Language, Kiswahili, Physical Education, and Community Service Learning as mandatory subjects.
“This change will apply to learners transitioning to senior school when they resume for the second term,” said PS Kipsang.
Students to Select Career Pathways Upon School Reopening
Kipsang emphasized that students will have time to consult with their parents before making career pathway choices.
“We are allowing them to go home so they can discuss and decide on the subjects they wish to pursue. The selection process will begin immediately upon reopening,” he explained.
Learners will choose from 38 available subjects to align with their desired career paths.
Grade 9 Placement to Encourage Diversity
The Ministry of Education has proposed limiting the number of students placed in the same school to a maximum of five during Grade 9 selection. According to Dr. Kipsang, this move is intended to promote diversity and ensure a more balanced learning environment.
STEM Education and New Career Pathways
The Ministry has also introduced the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education model, integrating applied and interdisciplinary learning.
Under the new system, students will have three major academic pathways:
Arts & Sports Science – Includes Fine Arts, Music, Dance, Theatre, Film, Physical Education, Sports, and Recreation.
Social Sciences – Covers Business Studies, History & Citizenship, Geography, Christian Religious Education (CRE), Islamic Religious Education (IRE), Hindu Religious Education (HRE), Community Service Learning (CSL), and Languages & Literature.
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) – Comprises Pure Sciences (Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, General Science), Applied Sciences (Agriculture, Computer Science, Home Science, and Technical Studies).
These reforms aim to diversify learning opportunities and ensure students pursue careers aligned with their strengths and interests.
