The Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) has resumed the construction of its long-stalled Education Resource Centre located at its headquarters along Murang’a Road in Nairobi. Initially launched in 2011, the project had stalled for over 15 years due to financial constraints, with only the first phase completed at a cost of Sh1.5 billion.
Now revitalized, the centre is set to be operational by January 2026, following the recommencement of construction works under phase two. KICD has received approval from the National Treasury to reallocate Sh400 million from its budget to complete the next phase. According to KICD Board Chairman Prof. Simon Gicharu, the move is a strategic effort to realize value from the already invested billions and address the institute’s infrastructure needs.
Speaking during a site tour with KICD Council members, Prof. Gicharu said the revived project aligns with KICD’s broader mandate to support the Competence-Based Curriculum (CBC). “This centre is not just a building it is an investment in the future of education. It will strengthen our research capacity and support the rollout of emerging disciplines such as aviation and marine science in schools,” he stated.
The centre is also expected to generate alternative revenue streams for KICD, which currently relies heavily on state funding. Prof. Gicharu noted that financial limitations had slowed the project, but the council’s decision to re-prioritize funds aims to ensure prudent use of existing resources.
Originally planned in six phases, only phase one was completed before work stalled. With phase two now underway and projected for completion by year’s end, the facility will be partially operational soon thereafter.
“This renewed momentum is about more than bricks and mortar it’s about ensuring that education reforms are anchored in strong institutional support,” said Prof. Gicharu.
Once completed, the Education Resource Centre will serve as a vital hub for curriculum research, policy innovation, and knowledge generation, reinforcing Kenya’s efforts to modernize its education system under the CBC framework.
