Kenya Government Announces Plans for Grade 9 Education Expansion

Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu has announced plans for the construction of 15,000 classrooms to accommodate Grade Nine learners next year. These preparations are in anticipation of the transition of Grade Nine students to primary schools. Speaking at Kangaru Girls during the 62nd National Drama and Film Festival, Machogu disclosed that the ministry will also hire 20,000 teachers for Junior Secondary Schools.

Machogu praised Kenya’s Drama and Film Festivals for their continual improvement in standards. He highlighted the ministry’s collaboration with other sectors to enhance Kenya’s Creative Arts Industry on the international stage. Machogu revealed plans to expand the influence of drama festivals across East Africa, aiming to establish a regional event with the participation of countries like Tanzania and Rwanda.

He emphasized the digitization of content to facilitate both learning and earning opportunities for students. Jacinta Mulwa, Head of KRA tax education, highlighted the importance of partnerships with Drama and Film Festivals in educating learners about taxes from an early age. Charles Odhiambo, chairman of the Kenya National Drama and Film Festivals, remarked on the increased participation and expanded categories in this year’s festivals.

Charles Ong’ondo, CEO of the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development, disclosed that this year’s festivals have generated over 10,000 Euros (approximately Sh1.4 million).