Education is one of the most important aspects of human development. It enables people to acquire knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes that are essential for personal and social well-being. Education also contributes to economic growth, social cohesion, and democratic governance. In Kenya, education has undergone significant changes over the years, reflecting the historical, political, and socio-cultural contexts of the country.

One of the earliest forms of education in Kenya was the traditional or indigenous education, which was provided by the elders and community members. This type of education aims to transmit the cultural heritage, norms, and values of society to the younger generations. It also prepared them for their roles and responsibilities in the family and community. Traditional education was mainly informal and oral, relying on stories, proverbs, songs, riddles, and rituals. It was also holistic and integrated, covering various aspects of life such as morality, spirituality, health, environment, agriculture, and crafts.

The colonial period introduced a new form of education in Kenya, which was influenced by the Western model. The missionaries were the first to establish schools in Kenya, mainly to spread Christianity and teach basic literacy and numeracy skills. Later, the colonial government also established schools for Africans, but with a different curriculum and objectives from those for Europeans and Asians. Colonial education aimed to create a loyal and obedient workforce for the colonial administration and economy. It also sought to assimilate and civilize the Africans by eroding their culture and identity. Colonial education was mainly formal and written, relying on textbooks, exams, and certificates. It was also selective and segregated, favoring some groups over others based on race, gender, and class.

The post-colonial period witnessed a series of reforms and innovations in education in Kenya, which were driven by the aspirations and challenges of nation-building. The independent government adopted a policy of Africanization, which aimed to make education more relevant and responsive to the needs and interests of the Kenyan people. It also adopted a policy of universalization, which aimed to make education more accessible and equitable for all Kenyans regardless of their background or location. Some of the major initiatives undertaken by the government included: expanding primary and secondary education; introducing free primary education; diversifying curriculum and assessment; promoting technical and vocational education; establishing public universities; supporting private education; integrating special needs education; enhancing teacher training; strengthening quality assurance; and fostering regional and international cooperation.

The current period is characterized by rapid changes and challenges in education in Kenya, which are influenced by global trends and developments. The adoption of the 2010 Constitution ushered in a new era of devolution and decentralization in education governance and management. The implementation of the 2018 Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) marked a paradigm shift in teaching and learning approaches from content-based to competency-based. The emergence of new technologies such as digital devices, the internet, and social media has transformed the modes and methods of delivering and accessing education. The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the normal functioning of schools and colleges, forcing them to adopt alternative modes of learning such as online and distance learning. The current challenges facing education in Kenya include: ensuring quality and relevance; enhancing access and equity; improving efficiency and effectiveness; ensuring accountability and transparency; addressing disparities and inequalities; fostering innovation and creativity; promoting peace and harmony; protecting human rights; safeguarding health and safety; enhancing environmental sustainability; strengthening partnerships; mobilizing resources; developing capacities; monitoring progress; evaluating impact; learning from best practices; anticipating future scenarios.