State urged to increase funding for teacher training under CBC
The Centre for Mathematics, Science and Technology Education in Africa has urged the national government to prioritize and augment funding for the retraining and retooling of teachers.
This initiative aims to ensure the effective implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum as it continues to be rolled out nationwide.
The CBC, which has replaced the long-established 8-4-4 system, seeks to nurture the abilities and talents of learners through a more practical, student-centered approach.
It places significant emphasis on cultivating competencies such as critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration—skills deemed essential for the 21st-century learner.
According to CEMASTEA’s deputy coordinator for Stem, Martin Mungai, there exists an urgent necessity to enhance the capacity of teachers through ongoing professional development.
Speaking at the conclusion of a week-long workshop for secondary school principals from Lamu County, Mungai underscored that the success of the CBC—particularly as it transitions into the higher junior secondary grades—largely hinges on the preparedness of teachers to effectively implement the new curriculum.
“With the CBC now advancing into Grade 10, the government must act promptly to ensure teachers are sufficiently supported. This entails not only training them in content delivery but also providing them with the essential tools and infrastructure such as science laboratories, digital learning materials, and teaching aids,” Mungai stated.
He noted that the CBC, which places a strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (Stem), necessitates a transition from traditional teaching methods to more practical, hands-on learning experiences.
For this transition to be successful, teachers must be afforded continuous training opportunities that align them with the evolving requirements of the curriculum.
“There is a significant need for teachers, especially those in Junior Secondary Schools, to undergo refresher training. This will empower them to handle Stem subjects with greater confidence and ensure that learners receive the highest quality education under the CBC model,” he added.
Mungai also highlighted the importance of a shift in mindset among educators, urging them to embrace the CBC positively.
He acknowledged that change is often accompanied by challenges but reiterated that with the appropriate support systems established, teachers can become the foremost proponents of the new curriculum.
“Teachers must approach CBC with a sense of ownership and purpose. Their attitude toward the curriculum will either impede or facilitate its successful implementation,” he remarked.
Lamu County deputy director of education Shumi Ali Mohammed underscored the significance of workshops such as the one conducted in Lamu, emphasizing that they play a vital role in clarifying the CBC and equipping school leaders with knowledge and skills for curriculum implementation.
She further emphasized that the success of the CBC is not solely the responsibility of teachers but requires a cooperative approach involving school administrators, parents, and the larger community.
Shumi revealed that the Ministry of Education is also working to enhance sensitization efforts at the county and sub-county levels to ensure that all stakeholders are united in their support of the curriculum.
“We are promoting dialogue and the creation of awareness among parents and guardians, enabling them to take an active role in their children’s learning journey within the CBC framework. The curriculum is crafted to be learner-centered, which implies that all parties involved in a child’s education must comprehend and endorse the approach. ”