MURANGA – The Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) has finalized preparations for the Senior School phase of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), confirming that curriculum designs for Grades 10 through 12 are complete.
The transition, set for 2026, will see the current Grade 9 learners move into the three-year Senior School phase, covering students aged 15 to 18. This stage marks the conclusion of Basic Education as defined by the Basic Education Act, 2013.
KICD Chairperson Prof. Simon Gicharu announced over the weekend that all textbooks for Grade 10 have been vetted and approved. These books will be delivered to public Senior Schools within the year.
“The books are ready. Qualified publishers have already been awarded, and distribution will happen before learners enter Grade 10 in 2026,” said Prof. Gicharu during an address at Murang’a High School on June 14.
He confirmed the institute’s plan to hold nationwide stakeholder engagement between July and August. The sessions will target parents, school boards, and teacher unions to prepare them for the upcoming transition.
In parallel, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and the Ministry of Education will lead the training of Senior School teachers in August and September. The goal is to ensure teachers are fully equipped to deliver the new syllabus.
Under the CBC system, each Senior School learner will take at least seven subjects, with four core subjects: English, Kiswahili, Mathematics, and Physical Education. Mathematics will be split into two categories Core Mathematics for learners in the STEM pathway and Essential Mathematics for those in Arts & Sports or Social Sciences.
“Learners at this stage are expected to be ready for career specialization,” said Prof. Gicharu. “They’ve had time to understand their strengths, interests, and personality. Now, they choose their path.”
The CBC rollout began in 2019 and has progressed steadily each year. The curriculum is designed to shift learners from rote memorization to applied knowledge, problem-solving, and life skills.
Responsibility for CBC implementation is divided across key agencies: KICD handles curriculum development, the TSC oversees classroom teaching, the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) manages assessment, and the Ministry of Education provides resources.
During his visit to Murang’a High School, Prof. Gicharu, who is also the founder of Mount Kenya and Mount Kigali Universities, addressed students as an alumnus of the institution.
“Real success takes time, effort, and the right mindset. Avoid shortcuts. Grow strong roots before reaching for the fruits,” he told the students.
He warned against chasing fast fame, urging the youth to value honesty and integrity.
“Your values will open more doors than your degrees. In today’s world, trust is a currency,” he said.
Prof. Gicharu also encouraged students to embrace digital literacy, citing the 4th Industrial Revolution as a defining factor in education and career preparation.
“We live in a time of artificial intelligence, robotics, and nanotechnology. These are not future trends they are your reality. You must adapt and stay informed.”
Other guests at the alumni event included Murang’a High School’s Board of Management, the Murang’a Old Boys Association (MOBA), and representatives from Farmers Choice Ltd. The school’s principal, Mr. Willie Kuria, and deputy principal, Mr. Kogi, hosted the event.
The launch of the Senior School curriculum comes at a pivotal time for education in Kenya, with education stakeholders working to align learning with the country’s social and economic priorities.
