Education CS Julius Ogamba Reinstates Mathematics as a Compulsory Subject

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has mandated that some form of mathematics be reinstated as a compulsory subject in senior secondary schools.

During the National Conversation on the Competency-Based Curriculum on Thursday, Ogamba disclosed that the ministry has acknowledged the concerns of stakeholders and has concluded that some form of mathematics should be mandated across all pathways.

“The majority of the stakeholders during the CBC dialogue expressed the opinion that mathematics ought to be compulsory in senior school. We have taken your concerns into account, engaged with the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD), and have reached a determination that some form of mathematics will be made compulsory for the other two pathways that are not STEM,” Ogamba directed.

According to the CS, under this new directive, students who select the STEM pathway will pursue pure mathematics, whereas the other two pathways will offer a simplified version of mathematics.

“We will have the STEM pathways featuring pure mathematics, and the other two pathways encompassing a form of mathematics so that mathematics is incorporated into all three pathways in senior school,” the CS elucidated.

In contrast to the 8-4-4 curriculum, where mathematics was a compulsory subject, the ministry had previously directed that students in senior school now had the option to forgo the subject based on the pathways they selected.

The ministry delineated the pathways into three: Arts and Sports Science, Social Sciences, and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), allowing students who opted for the first two pathways the opportunity to omit mathematics.

However, Ogamba has reversed this decision and directed that these two pathways will include some form of mathematics.

His decision to rescind the previous directive followed developments that sparked intense debates among Kenyans and relevant stakeholders, who contended that this was an unwise decision and posed challenges that could affect Kenya’s workforce and economic sustainability.

The CS assured Kenyans and stakeholders that their perspectives regarding the education system are valued, and the Ministry takes them seriously in an effort to refine the CBC curriculum, which has faced criticism.

“It is a significant aspect that we have heeded the views of Kenyans, and it is an important contribution that has emerged from the stakeholders to demonstrate that stakeholder dialogue is crucial,” Ogamba stated.

Ogamba has urged stakeholders and the broader Kenyan populace to lend their support to this new initiative.

At present, the CS and Principal Secretary Julius Bitok are actively addressing the CBC transition in Kenya. Their emphasis is on ensuring the provision of quality education and addressing challenges such as teacher preparedness, school infrastructure, and public apprehensions regarding CBC implementation.

400,000 students in poorly-run universities face uncertainty

What you need to know:

• Ogamba ascribed the failure to political patronage and ethnic considerations during appointments.
• The Cabinet Secretary stated that appointments to councils will henceforth be subject to security background checks.

More than 400,000 students, or 60 percent of the total enrollment in public universities, are attending institutions that are inadequately governed, as reported by a parliamentary committee.
Education Cabinet Secretary Migos Ogamba informed the National Assembly’s Public Investments Committee on Governance and Education that 21 out of the 43 universities in Kenya are underperforming in terms of management.

He attributed the underperformance to political patronage and ethnic considerations during the appointment of Vice Chancellors and Council Members within the higher education institutions.

Mr. Ogamba conveyed to the National Assembly’s Public Investments Committee on Governance and Education, chaired by Bumula MP Wanami Wamboka, that 20 universities are performing well while 21 are experiencing difficulties due to governance concerns and political patronage.

“The 21 non-performing universities encompass more than 60 percent, or 400,000 of the total enrollment of 800,000 students,” Mr. Ogamba stated.

“If we were to eliminate these 21 universities as proposed by the member for Imenti Central (Moses Kirima), what would we do with the students enrolled in those institutions? ” Mr. Ogamba inquired.

Mr. Kirima had insisted that the unprofitable universities be closed and students reassigned to other well-performing institutions.
Mr. Ogamba informed the committee, led by Mr. Wamboka on Friday, April 25, 2025, that the Ministry has initiated measures to ensure that candidates for council appointments will be subject to security background checks by relevant authorities to assess their appropriateness.

Mr. Ogamba remarked that the Ministry is revising the qualifications of all University Councils with the aim of ensuring that all members are competent to oversee the higher education facilities.

“Out of the 43 universities, 21 are facing challenges. We have refrained from appointing Council Members for several universities because we want to assure their qualifications. We are currently conducting background checks on prospective council members. ”

“Members of the University Council must undergo background checks prior to their appointment. We are presently evaluating six councils. It is vital for the committee to note that 21 out of the 43 university councils are experiencing difficulties. ”

Mr. Ogamba appeared before the committee to address various issues related to the auditing of public universities and the Technical Vocational Education Training (TVET) regarding the non-remittance of statutory deductions, operation without Governing Councils, stalled projects, rejection of Vice-Chancellors upon return from leave, ethnic and gender balance in staffing and appointments, and officers in acting positions for over six months.

Auditor General Nancy Gathungu had raised concerns about the failure of several universities to operate with Governing Councils, as well as issues related to ethnic and gender balance in staffing and appointments.

The Cabinet Secretary informed the MPs that the slow process of appointing vice chancellors and councils has been necessitated by the necessity to ensure that qualified individuals are appointed to the vacant positions.
“The issues afflicting our institutions of higher education have arisen from political patronage or governance challenges. We are currently conducting background checks to ascertain who oversees our institutions of higher learning,” Mr. Ogamba stated.

“In the appointment of university councils and boards of TVET institutions, we endeavor to comply with the provisions of the Constitution regarding fairness, regional and gender balance, merit, and competition,” Mr. Ogamba informed MPs that the councils and boards assume strategic oversight roles in the administration of institutions, which are responsible for policy formulation, strategic direction, financial oversight, and institutional accountability.

“It is, therefore, crucial to appoint the right individuals, possessing the appropriate skills mix, and to do so in a manner that is compliant with legal requirements,” Mr. Ogamba articulated.

“At present, the majority of our university councils are fully constituted. Only six public universities have vacancies ranging from two to three members. The remaining councils are either fully constituted or have only one member missing,” he noted.

“The vacancies remain unfilled due to the recruitment process currently underway, aimed at securing the right skills mix, as well as gender and ethnic balance. We will address these vacancies once the ongoing recruitment process concludes. ”

He indicated that once the Public Service Commission (PSC) finalizes the recruitment processes, the results will be submitted to the university councils, which will then engage in consultations with the Cabinet Secretary prior to making any appointments.

Mr. Ogamba emphasized that crucial consultations, aside from merit, include considerations of gender and regional balance to ensure that senior management appointments accurately reflect the diversity of Kenya and promote gender inclusivity.

CS Ogamba Clarifies the Position on Mathematics as a Mandatory Subject

Following days of escalating public pressure and confusion, the Ministry of Education has rescinded its contentious proposal to render Mathematics optional under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba provided clarification during the CBC National Conversation event convened at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on Thursday, April 24.

“The majority of stakeholders engaged in the CBC dialogue expressed the opinion that Mathematics should remain compulsory in senior schools,” Ogamba declared.

“We have taken your concerns into account, consulted with KICD, and arrived at a decision that some form of Mathematics shall be made compulsory for the other two pathways. ”

This clarification comes in response to a barrage of criticism from education stakeholders, parents, and the public, many of whom expressed apprehension regarding the long-term consequences of diminishing a core subject like Mathematics in senior schools.

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Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok further affirmed the ministry’s position, asserting that Mathematics continues to be a compulsory subject in both junior and senior schools across all pathways. “There is no confusion,” Bitok emphasized. “Mathematics is foundational and will persist as a core subject. ”

The initial proposal to render Mathematics optional in senior secondary for non-STEM pathways was withdrawn after comprehensive consultations with educational experts, the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD), and various public forums. While Ogamba’s terminology—“some form of mathematics”—still elicited skepticism online, the primary message was unequivocal: the subject is here to remain.

Critics had previously articulated concerns that a reduction in math instruction would hinder students’ abilities in real-world problem-solving and future career opportunities.

The Ministry now contends with the responsibility of ensuring that the revised Mathematics curriculum in non-STEM tracks is practical, meaningful, and consistent with national educational objectives. For the moment, the government seems to have made a complete turnaround—and the citizens of Kenya are keenly observing how this essential subject will be integrated moving forward.

CS Ogamba issues ultimatum to principals withholding Form Four certificates

Cabinet Secretary for Education Julius Ogamba has issued a stringent warning to Secondary School Principals who continue to withhold students’ Form Four certificates due to incomplete payment of school fees.

He stated that his office had provided notice to the Principals to unconditionally release the certificates, and that notice has lapsed without the Principals taking action.

“I urge head teachers to comply with that directive immediately upon the resumption of schools,” he remarked.

The Cabinet Secretary was addressing attendees at Marani Catholic Parish, where he, alongside other leaders led by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, was engaged in a fundraising effort to support the construction of the Parish, labeling the withholding of certificates as unlawful.
The Deputy President emphasized the need for unity within the nation to facilitate the government’s operations peacefully and ensure equitable distribution of government resources across the country.

He dismissed critics of President Ruto, asserting that his Kenya Kwanza administration has achieved numerous projects nationwide within just two years, and expressed confidence that it will accomplish even more in the remaining period leading to the 2026 national elections.

“We acknowledge that we have delivered some positive outcomes since your election of us, but there remain additional matters that require your continued patience as we strategize to complete them,” he stated.

The gathering was attended by other government officials, including Internal Security Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Majority Leader Kimani Ichungwa, and Kuria MP Mathias Robi.

Several MPs from the Gusii region who were present included Senator Richard Onyonka, Japhet Mokaya, MP for Kitutu Chache North, Steve Mogaka, MP for West Mugirango, Patrick Osero, MP for North Mugirango, Sylvanus Osoro, MP for South Mugirango, and Kisii County Woman Representative Donya Aburi.

Mathias Rioba highlighted the significance of the Church, noting its provision of spiritual nourishment and comfort to all individuals.
Robi remarked that the Church plays a substantial role in the development of schools to complement government efforts and committed to collaborating with the Church for the shared objective of progress.

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has pledged that no deserving student will be denied university education due to lack of fees, saying the government will cover any shortfall.

Ogamba says the government is committed to strengthening governance and financial sustainability in public universities.

He noted that insolvent universities have dropped from 23 to 14, with full recovery expected in the next two to three years.

The CS credited reforms such as the student-centered funding model and fee cuts of up to 40% for easing the burden on families.

Looking ahead, the CS announced that next week, a national conference will be held in Mombasa to align university and tertiary education programs with market-driven job skills.

Kenyatta University Council Chairman Dr. Ben Chumo welcomed the new council members and thanked the CS for his support, noting the institution’s central role in Kenya’s education system with nearly 50,000 students enrolled.

On basic education, CS Ogamba further revealed that the government is conducting a nationwide verification of student and school data following an Auditor General’s report questioning past records. Over 15,000 schools have already been verified to ensure accurate capitation disbursement and evidence-based policy decisions.

“This verification will enable us to plan better and avoid past challenges with delayed or insufficient capitation. Once the exercise is complete, we will have reliable data to make more effective decisions,” CS Ogamba added.

The CS thanked the media for amplifying government efforts and assured continued transparency and accountability in the education sector reforms.

CS Ogamba Issues Directives Regarding School Title Deeds

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has issued a directive mandating all Regional, County, and Sub-County Education Officers to ensure that schools within their jurisdictions obtain title deeds within a one-year timeframe.

The Cabinet Secretary articulated that the absence of title deeds in numerous educational institutions has hindered their development, thereby depriving students of an adequate learning environment. He confirmed that all land that had been unlawfully appropriated has been returned to the respective schools.

“We have instructed our directors within the ministry to conduct an audit of all schools to identify those lacking title deeds, so that we can facilitate the acquisition of these documents in collaboration with the Ministry of Lands,” he stated.

Ogamba’s Perspective on Land Grabbing in Schools

A significant number of public schools are operating without legal documentation to substantiate their ownership, placing them in a precarious position against land encroachment.

A 2023 study conducted by the Shule Yangu campaign alliance revealed that only 11,974 out of the nation’s 32,643 public schools, representing a mere 37 percent, possess title deeds. Consequently, over 20,000 schools remain susceptible to fraudulent land encroachments and illicit activities.

CS Alice Wahome’s Warning to Land Grabbers

Lands Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome has announced the establishment of regional teams tasked with addressing land grabbing issues, urging school administrators to promptly submit property records.

“We are not merely safeguarding land; we are safeguarding education,” she emphasized.

A senior official from the National Lands Commission noted that religious organizations holding original titles are facing bureaucratic delays and a lack of coordination among the Ministry of Lands, the National Land Commission, and the Survey of Kenya, which are significant impediments to the process.

“Land grabbing persists due to systemic deficiencies. A cohesive land policy and comprehensive database are essential,” he remarked.

As of 2019, only 30 percent of the 32,354 public schools had secured title deeds, leaving over 22,648 schools vulnerable to potential land appropriation. Approximately 4,100 schools have formally reported being at risk.

This alarming situation is compounded by reports indicating that eight acres of land belonging to Mathari Teaching and Referral Hospital have been encroached upon by an unidentified private developer, who has erected a temporary fence around the unfenced section of the property.

𝐂𝐒 𝐎𝐠𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐚 announces the introduction of CBE as he 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐮𝐬𝐡 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲-𝐁𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦s

The government has reaffirmed its dedication to Competency-Based Education (CBE), characterizing it as a transformative model that is central to the nation’s development agenda.

While speaking at the launch event at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), Education CS Julius Migos Ogamba declared that CBE, which is also known as Elimu Thabiti, serves as the foundation for an inclusive, skills-based education system aimed at preparing learners for the challenges of the 21st century.

“Behind every education reform is a child whose aspirations are reliant on it. We are all in this together,” remarked Ogamba.

The CS further highlighted that the CBE model is founded on grassroots consultation and embodies the voices of communities throughout the country.

“Mathematics will henceforth be compulsory across all senior secondary school pathways,” stated the CS, adding that the technical team will collaborate closely with the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development to facilitate its implementation.

In addition, Ogamba encouraged educators to adopt a novel approach to teaching: “We must transition away from rote learning (a method of memorizing information through repetition, rather than comprehending the underlying meaning or context).

Our emphasis is on dynamic, learner-centered methodologies that foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving,” he added.

During his remarks, Basic Education PS Prof. Julius Bitok underlined that CBE constitutes not merely a modification of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) but a comprehensive transformation of Kenya’s education ecosystem.

“We are no longer merely discussing curriculum; we are now executing a system-wide reform,” noted Prof. Bitok.

The PS highlighted insights garnered from consultations at the county level, highlighting Nakuru, where students demonstrated innovation and practical skills, showcasing the tangible effects of Competency-Based Education (CBE).

“This is not simply a curriculum transition; it signifies a national transformation, and the future of our children is contingent upon our collective progress along this journey, as CBE aligns with Vision 2030 and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda,” he stated.

In response, Higher Education and Research PS Dr. Beatrice Inyangala asserted that CBE also revolutionizes teaching practices and learning environments.

“We must detach ourselves from teaching students to merely memorize. Instead, we should illustrate to them how to apply what they learn, and they will retain that knowledge,” she emphasized.

Dr. Inyangala underscored the significance of ongoing teacher retraining, active community engagement, and educational programs tailored to local contexts as vital elements for the effective implementation of the Competency-Based Education model.

Meanwhile, preparations for the national rollout are actively progressing. Universities, teacher training colleges, and curriculum development agencies are synchronizing their frameworks to accommodate the inaugural cohort of CBE learners anticipated to progress to university by 2029.

The Ministry is also devoted to reviewing the adult education curriculum to align with CBE principles, thereby ensuring that lifelong learning opportunities are both relevant and skills-oriented.

Furthermore, initiatives are in motion to enhance teacher retooling efforts, and to date, 291 teachers have received training, with plans for national expansion targeted for the upcoming months.

Concurrently, special needs education has been prioritized, with the government committing to the enhancement of infrastructure and learning resources.

Helb doesn’t have funds to lend to KMTC students, states Ogamba.

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba informed Parliament that students from the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) have not been receiving funding from the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) because of a budget shortfall.

Ogamba explained that certain universities and training institutions fall outside the ministry’s scope and manage their budgets via relevant ministries.

The CS, who appeared before the Education and Health committees of the National Assembly, disclosed that HELB had been granted Sh84. 5 billion for this financial year, whereas the requirement was Sh138. 5 billion.

“I wish to notify Parliament that HELB submits estimates for both new and continuing students, based on information supplied by universities and other institutions under the Ministry of Education, with the budget allotted to HELB designated for funding a typically predetermined number of students in universities and other institutions,” he stated.

Ogamba indicated that HELB had supported KMTC to the tune of Sh1. 2 billion during the 2022/2023 period based on resources provided by the college through the Ministry of Health.

The CS noted that previously, HELB had allocated Sh468 million for loans to KMTC students based on the backing received from USAID over five years from 2014 to 2019 and emphasized that it is the ministry’s policy to assist all students pursuing higher education.

“If HELB is tasked with the responsibility of supporting all students in higher learning institutions, funding must be ensured, and it is evident that we have not declined to fund students in higher learning institutions, with the ongoing challenge being budget-related, which is the significant issue at hand,” he remarked.

KMTC Chief Executive Officer Kelly Oluoch conveyed to MPs that the Constitution mandates support for students at the institution, which has an enrollment of 68,000 students and 90 campuses nationwide.

Dr. Oluoch pointed out that the college’s exclusion from regular funding raises critical issues concerning equity, equality, and non-discrimination, principles firmly enshrined in the 2010 Constitution of Kenya, with Article 27 affirming that every individual is equal before the law.

He argued that by HELB limiting funding to students within institutions under the Ministry of Education, the State might be neglecting its constitutional obligation to promote equal educational opportunities.

“We currently face a shortfall of Sh1. 5 billion in unpaid school fees, with KMTC consistently seeking financial support to ensure that no student is deprived of learning opportunities. We observe that 34 percent of those who gain admission do not report, while 27 percent of our students defer their studies due to financial constraints,” he stated.