Exploring Kenya’s Competency-Based Curriculum: A Comprehensive Guide to Senior Secondary Pathways
In 2017, Kenya embarked on a transformative journey by adopting the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), bidding farewell to the conventional content-focused 8-4-4 system that had governed education since 1985. This marked a pivotal moment as the government initiated the gradual phase-out of the old curriculum, culminating with the final cohort sitting for their KCSE national examination in 2027.
The transition to CBC represented more than just a shift in educational paradigms; it demanded a fundamental reorientation of perspectives, especially among educators and stakeholders. To ensure the successful implementation of this new approach, it became imperative to foster a deeper understanding and enthusiasm for the CBC model, garnering crucial support from all involved parties.
This article delves into the intricate pathways of senior secondary education under CBC, elucidating the diverse options available to students:
Arts and Sports Science Department:
Core subjects: 4 Mandatory
Electives: 1 Optional
Subjects encompass a rich array including Community Service Learning, Physical Education, Legal and Ethical Issues in Arts, Communication Skills, and a spectrum of Performing and Visual Arts.
Sports Science Department:
Core subjects: 4 Mandatory
Electives: 1-2 Optional
Subjects span Human Physiology, Anatomy, Nutrition, and delve into various sports categories, from Ball Games to Martial Arts.
Social Sciences Department (Humanities):
Core subjects: 2 Mandatory
Electives: 3-5 Optional
Offerings range from History and Geography to Religious Studies and Business Studies, providing a comprehensive understanding of society and its dynamics.
Languages Department:
Core subjects: 2 Mandatory
Elective: 1 Optional
An extensive language program including English, Kiswahili, as well as offerings in foreign languages like Arabic, French, German, and Chinese, fostering linguistic proficiency and cultural appreciation.
Business Studies Department:
Core subjects: 2 Mandatory
Elective: 1 Optional
Covering essential aspects of business, students engage in Community Service Learning alongside studies in Business Studies.
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Department (STEM):
Pure Sciences:
Core subjects: 3 Mandatory
Electives: 3 Optional
A rigorous curriculum including Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology alongside ICT, preparing students for advanced scientific pursuits.
Applied Sciences:
Core subjects: 3 Mandatory
Elective: 1 Optional
From Agriculture to Computer Science, students delve into practical applications of scientific principles, fostering innovation and problem-solving skills.
Technical and Engineering Department:
Core subjects: 6 Mandatory
Elective: 1 Optional
With a focus on ICT, Mathematics, and the Physical Sciences, students explore diverse fields such as Agricultural Technology and Geosciences, laying the groundwork for technical expertise.
Career and Technology Studies Department:
Core subjects: 3 Mandatory
Elective: 1 Optional
Catering to a spectrum of career aspirations, subjects range from Fashion Design to Culinary Arts, empowering students with practical skills for the workforce.
Through these varied pathways, the CBC not only equips students with academic knowledge but also nurtures their practical skills and competencies, preparing them for the dynamic challenges of the modern world.
