Busia County Principals Trained on CBC Transition Ahead of Grade 10 Rollout
The Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education in Africa (CEMASTEA) has successfully conducted a three-day training session for school principals in Busia County to enhance their understanding of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) and the upcoming transition to Grade 10.
The training, held at Nambale Boys High School, brought together 173 principals from across the county. It focused on equipping them with critical knowledge of CBC pathways, curriculum implementation, and the infrastructure requirements for senior secondary schools.
Makoba Kizito, the coordinator of the STEM program at CEMASTEA, emphasized the importance of the CBC pathways, which will guide learners into areas aligned with their interests and strengths. The three key pathways—Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), Sports and Arts, and Social Sciences—were thoroughly discussed, including the subjects and tracks under each.
“STEM will be a mandatory pathway for all schools, but each school must also offer one additional pathway based on their capacity and resources,” Kizito stated.
He noted that the training was informed by a national survey of 1,300 principals, which highlighted a widespread need for more clarity on CBC transition and pathway implementation.
“Principals expressed concerns about how to manage the transition and guide learners appropriately. This training is tailored to address those needs,” he added.
Kizito also underscored the vital role of parents in the transition process, particularly in helping learners choose suitable pathways.
“Parents are central to this transition. Their involvement in mentorship and decision-making will be crucial for learners’ success,” he said.
James Ekaliyo, the Busia County Director of Education, acknowledged the importance of the training in preparing school leaders for the CBC transition.
“This initiative helps principals understand the placement criteria and structural expectations of CBC. We plan to extend this training to department heads and teachers across senior schools,” Ekaliyo noted.
He assured that most schools in the county are ready to accommodate Grade 10 learners, citing past successes such as timely textbook delivery and increased teacher recruitment.
“We constructed 418 classrooms to support Grade 9 learners. This infrastructure will now also support Grade 10 learners,” he added.
Private schools were not left behind, with four of their principals participating in the training to ensure uniform implementation of CBC standards across the board.
David Maase, the Busia County KESSHA Chairman, expressed satisfaction with the training.
“Our concerns have been addressed, and we are now confident and ready to receive Grade 10 learners. Such training should be continuous to keep us updated,” he said.
Tom Amadi, Principal of Nambale High School, praised the CBC system for its emphasis on skill development and integrity in assessment.
“CBC’s focus on formative rather than summative assessments is a step forward. It prepares learners for real-world challenges and job markets,” he stated.
Benard Okema, Principal of Machakus Secondary School, added that schools are adequately prepared in terms of infrastructure and called on stakeholders to support the curriculum.
“We’ve learned how to use locally available resources creatively. CBC promotes innovation and self-reliance among learners,” Okema said.
As Kenya prepares to implement Grade 10 under the CBC system in 2025, Busia County’s principals are now better equipped to guide both learners and parents through this critical transition in the country’s education reform journey.
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