The Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) is a new approach to education that aims to equip learners with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the 21st century. CBC was introduced in Kenya in 2017 as part of the government’s vision to reform the education sector and align it with national goals and global standards.

CBC is different from the previous curriculum, which was based on content and examinations. CBC focuses on developing competencies, which are the abilities to apply knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values in real-life situations. CBC also emphasizes learner-centeredness, meaning that learners are actively involved in their learning process and have a voice in shaping their learning experiences.

CBC has six key features that make it a transformative curriculum for Kenya’s education sector:

• It is based on a clear and coherent framework that defines the expected learning outcomes at each level of education.
• It is flexible and responsive to the needs and interests of learners, teachers, parents, and society.
• It is inclusive and equitable, ensuring that all learners have access to quality education regardless of their background, abilities, or location.
• It is holistic and integrated, covering all aspects of human development: cognitive, affective, psychomotor, social, and spiritual.
• It is progressive and spiral, building on prior learning and allowing for continuous assessment and feedback.
• It is collaborative and participatory, fostering a culture of teamwork, creativity, and innovation among learners, teachers, and other stakeholders.

CBC has many benefits for learners, teachers, and society as a whole. Some of these benefits include:

• Learners develop critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills that prepare them for life and work in a dynamic and complex world.
• Learners acquire positive values and attitudes that enable them to become responsible citizens who contribute to national development and global peace.
• Learners discover their talents and passions and pursue their personal goals and aspirations.
• Teachers become facilitators of learning who guide, support, and motivate learners to achieve their full potential.
• Teachers enhance their professional growth and development through continuous learning and reflection.
• Teachers collaborate with other teachers, parents, and community members to create conducive learning environments for learners.
• Society benefits from a skilled and competent workforce that drives economic growth and social progress.
• Society benefits from a diverse and harmonious society that respects human rights and cultural diversity.

CBC is not without its challenges, however. Some of the challenges facing CBC implementation include:

• Inadequate infrastructure and resources in some schools, especially in rural and marginalized areas.
• Insufficient training and support for teachers on how to effectively deliver CBC.
• Resistance and skepticism from some stakeholders who are used to the traditional curriculum and assessment methods.
• Lack of awareness and understanding of CBC among some parents and community members who may have unrealistic expectations or misconceptions about CBC.

These challenges can be overcome by concerted efforts from all stakeholders involved in CBC implementation. Some of the strategies that can be adopted include:

• Providing adequate funding and resources for CBC implementation, such as textbooks, materials, equipment, facilities, and internet connectivity.
• Enhancing teacher capacity and motivation through regular training, mentoring, coaching, and recognition.
• Engaging parents and community members in CBC awareness campaigns, sensitization workshops, and feedback sessions.
• Strengthening partnerships and collaboration among various actors in the education sector, such as government agencies, the private sector, civil society organizations, media, and international partners.

CBC is a bold and visionary initiative that has the potential to transform Kenya’s education sector for the better. It requires commitment, dedication, and cooperation from all stakeholders to ensure its successful implementation. By embracing CBC, we can create a brighter future for our children and our nation.