The second phase of the competency-based curriculum has officially started when grade seven pupils report to class today, indicating the end of the first phase (CBC).
Since the government has yet to provide the promised capitation of Sh15,000 for each student, there are a number of obstacles to implementation, including a lack of funding and inadequate facilities.
Despite the ministry’s pledge to provide capitation to all public primary schools for the start of the school year this week, students will report to the classrooms without any assistance from the government. According to the state’s stated plans, it will spend Sh9.6 billion, with Sh15,000 budgeted for each student, of which Sh4,000 will be utilized to improve school infrastructure development.
Another challenge that many schools face is a teacher shortage. The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) is, however, now employing 35,000 more teachers.
While addressing the teacher shortage, TSC will deploy primary teachers with diplomas and degree qualifications to teach in junior secondary.
According to TSC data, only 4,567 primary school teachers are certified to teach JSS. Education CS Machogu has instructed all parents and guardians of students in Grade 7 to ensure that their children report to school today. The country has around 32,555 primary schools, 24,000 of which are public institutions.
Concerning infrastructure, there are still questions about whether there is enough space for junior high schools, as well as enough classrooms, laboratories, and a sufficient amount of water and electricity.
For instance, schools will share resources with their neighbors in areas where they are disadvantaged. According to the Ministry of Education, the partnership will make it particularly simple to teach practical subjects like integrated science, agriculture, computer science, home science, and the performing and visual arts.
Additional common amenities include sports fields, open areas, and equipment for games, sports, and physical activity.