The transition from the 8-4-4 curriculum to the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) has been a significant shift in Kenya’s education system. The CBC aims to produce well-rounded individuals equipped with competencies, values, knowledge, and skills necessary for success in a competitive world. Originally, the 8-4-4 system aimed to move away from exam-centric education and promote student autonomy. However, the CBC demands more parental involvement in assignments, raising concerns about the busy modern parent’s ability to meet these demands.
The CBC focuses on developing students’ abilities and self-reliance, emphasizing self-expression and discipline. This shift echoes Kenya’s education history, which traces back to the colonial system and its subsequent reforms. Despite differences in terminology and structure, both the 8-4-4 and CBC systems share similarities, particularly in their focus on outcomes and learner-centeredness. Overall, the CBC represents a continuation of Kenya’s educational evolution toward more adaptive and student-oriented approaches.
