Education can be defined as the process of imparting skills, knowledge and attitudes to a person for purposes of bringing desired behavioural change in them. A good education system must transform the society for the better. Has the Kenyan education system served the country?
Kenya has had two different education systems, namely the 7-6-3 and the current 8-4-4. The former, which had an A-level component was ditched because stakeholders realised students needed practical skills, which the A-level lacked.
With the advent of 8-4-4, Kenyans believed the country had found a lasting solution to unemployment.
But while the proposed system was good in design, the hurried implementation messed it up. There was no piloting and development of infrastructure, thereby laying a shaky foundation.
Its many subjects meant learners were good at general but very poor in specifics: specialisation became a casualty with the expanded curriculum. Those of us who went through the system will never forget the heavy workload.
READ MORE
Odinga hits out at MPs for 'power grab'
Climate finance: Who is being asked to pay what at COP29?
In an effort to embrace broad-based curriculum, the learners have little time to shape their character. Emphasis has been directed on cramming and reproduction of facts.
Activities which enable an individual develop a strong character have been given a wide birth. Education Minister Fred Matiang’i is on the right path by initiating a curriculum review.
Kenya needs to align education systems with her national goals and aspirations. The present system is too deficient to meet our development goals.
