Kenya’s education system is undergoing a strategic evolution aimed at addressing long-standing concerns around access, affordability, and the relevance of learning in a changing world. The Ministry of Education has now formally transitioned from the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) to Competency-Based Education (CBE), a shift officials say will simplify learning pathways while placing greater emphasis on real-world application.
The announcement was made during the National Conversation Forum on Education held on April 24. Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok, who led the session, described the move as a necessary response to the evolving needs of learners and the country’s broader development goals. He noted that the curriculum must reflect the times and remain responsive to both local and global demands.
“Curriculum is dynamic, and we have an opportunity to be able to review some of the aspects of our curriculum. I am happy to note that today is the day we are also officially launching the new brand from CBC to CBE,” said Bitok during the forum.
Unlike its predecessor, CBE is expected to streamline the learning process and equip students more directly with the knowledge, skills, and values they need to navigate modern challenges and opportunities. The Ministry has begun engaging parents and education stakeholders in discussions to refine the implementation process, encouraging participation and transparency throughout the transition.
Bitok also reminded attendees that sustainable change would only be possible through collective ownership of the reforms. “The future of our children’s education rests squarely on our collective shoulders. I urge all stakeholders to actively participate in similar dialogues, provide honest feedback, and contribute to shaping education policies that serve the best interests of every learner,” he added.
The Ministry hopes that with this reorientation, education in Kenya will become more inclusive and better aligned with the realities of the 21st-century economy, ultimately creating a system that works for all learners, regardless of their background.
