NAIROBI — Kenya’s senior secondary school students will study one of two distinct mathematics courses beginning in 2026, according to new curriculum guidelines by the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD).
KICD Chairperson Simon Gicharu announced the split during an alumni visit to Murang’a High School on Saturday. He confirmed that students pursuing the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) track will study Core Mathematics, while those in arts, social sciences, and sports pathways will take Essential Mathematics.
“Mathematics was initially not going to be compulsory in senior school,” Gicharu said. “But after input from education stakeholders, we revised that decision and created two mathematics paths to suit different learning needs.”
Core Mathematics will build numerical and algebraic skills, and it includes geometry, statistics, and probability. These topics, Gicharu said, are necessary for developing critical reasoning and solving real-world problems.
“Commercial arithmetic, financial literacy, and spatial concepts like navigation are not optional. They’re essential for all learners, regardless of their chosen field,” he stated.
Students in the non-STEM pathways will take Essential Mathematics, which focuses on practical computational skills. This course is intended to improve problem-solving and support informed decision-making in everyday life.
According to Gicharu, all learners will continue to access digital learning tools as part of their instruction. Basic Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills—such as accessing content, creating digital materials, and understanding online responsibility—will be taught in every school. Teachers are expected to incorporate these skills in lesson delivery.
“Students must learn how to navigate the digital world,” Gicharu said. “These skills are now part of everyday learning.”
In addition to academic subjects, students will also participate in a Community Service Learning (CSL) program. This initiative allows them to apply knowledge and skills by solving problems in their immediate environment.
“They’ll take part in practical learning experiences that promote civic responsibility and community participation,” Gicharu said.
To support emotional and spiritual development, each school will offer a Pastoral Program Initiative (PPI) designed to instill character, discipline, and values.
Under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), senior secondary school will cover three years—Grades 10 through 12—for students aged 15 to 18. This phase is the final segment of Kenya’s basic education structure under the Basic Education Act of 2013.
The current Grade 9 class will be the first cohort to transition to Senior School in January 2026.
Gicharu outlined the minimum subject load for Senior School. Each learner will take at least seven subjects, with four being mandatory: English, Kiswahili, Mathematics (either Core or Essential), and Physical Education.
“CBC has been in place since 2019, and the system is fully prepared for the next transition,” he said.
During the event, Gicharu praised Murang’a High School’s legacy in producing responsible citizens, attributing alumni success to the school’s values.
“We’re here because this school shaped us,” he said. “Now, we return to inspire the next generation.”
Murang’a High School Principal Willy Kuria commended the alumni for offering guidance to current students. He noted that their involvement supports the CBC goal of building well-rounded individuals.
“Mentorship from former students makes a big impact,” Kuria said. “It helps students relate better to their future and believe in what they can become.”
Kenya’s education sector continues to adapt to the CBC framework, focusing on applied skills, character development, and national relevance. The KICD’s structured mathematics tracks mark another step in reshaping classroom learning to reflect the country’s academic and socio-economic goals.
