“Back To 8-4-4 System?” High Court Orders Education CS To Do This Within 14 Days

The High Court has directed Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba to urgently address concerns surrounding the implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) in Kenya.

The order comes amid growing public criticism of the curriculum, particularly over its effectiveness and the financial burden it has placed on parents and guardians.

Introduced to replace the former 8-4-4 education system, CBC has faced criticism from parents and education stakeholders who argue that its implementation is expensive. Families have raised concerns about the cost of learning materials, assessments, school projects and other curriculum-related requirements. Some parents have consequently called for the reinstatement of the 8-4-4 system, which they consider more affordable.

Under the court’s directive, CS Ogamba has been given 14 days to establish a quality assurance commission to assess the implementation, performance and progress of CBC. The commission will be expected to examine how the curriculum is being implemented, identify its strengths and weaknesses, and evaluate its overall impact on learners.

The review could play a crucial role in shaping the government’s future education policies, including determining whether to continue with CBC or consider changes to the existing system. Some parents maintain that the previous 8-4-4 model was less costly and easier for households to manage.

As the deadline approaches, attention has shifted to the Ministry of Education and the steps it will take to comply with the court order. The commission’s eventual findings could have significant implications for the future of Kenya’s education system and the continued implementation of CBC.