Kenya’s education sector is under the spotlight as the country prepares for a major shift in January 2026. More than 1.2 million learners will join senior secondary schools under the Competency-Based Education (CBE) system. This will be the first large-scale rollout of the curriculum, and many are questioning whether schools are ready.
Public Schools Face Readiness Challenges
With only three months to go, public institutions are struggling to meet requirements. Essential facilities such as science laboratories, workshops, and digital learning tools are still missing in many schools. Teachers warn that without these resources, learners may not fully benefit from the new system.
The government has promised that preparations are on track. However, education stakeholders argue that progress is too slow and risks leaving many learners behind.
Private Schools Ahead in Preparation
While public schools struggle, private institutions appear to be making rapid progress. Many are completing construction projects, upgrading classrooms, and installing digital infrastructure. This progress has raised fears of widening inequality between public and private schools.
“Unless both public and private institutions are equally prepared, we risk entrenching inequality in access to quality education,” said David Kariuki, Chief Principal at Merishaw School.
Teachers and Learners Remain Hopeful
Despite the challenges, teachers remain cautiously optimistic. They believe the CBE system will transform learning by focusing on problem-solving, real-world applications, and competency mastery.
“The approach will produce adaptable and confident learners who can thrive in today’s job market,” said teachers Immaculate Mwende and Moses Otenyo.
Learners are equally excited about the transition. They look forward to using tablets, computers, and other digital tools that will help them gain vital skills for a digital economy.
The Road Ahead
The next few months will be crucial for Kenya’s education system. Stakeholders are urging the government to speed up preparations and ensure equity. If successful, the transition could reshape Kenya’s future workforce and bridge the gap between education and the job market.
