Introduction
In a groundbreaking move to transform the education landscape, Kenya’s Ministry of Education has launched a nationwide series of county-based dialogues aimed at enhancing the quality of education and learning outcomes under the Competency-Based Education (CBE) framework. These dialogues, set to take place across all 47 counties from March 7th to March 18th, 2025, will bring together key stakeholders to evaluate the progress, achievements, and challenges of CBE implementation. The national launch, presided over by Cabinet Secretary for Education Julius Migos, marks a significant step towards ensuring that Kenya’s education system meets the needs of the 21st century.
The Competency-Based Education (CBE) Framework
Competency-Based Education (CBE) is a student-centered approach that focuses on the mastery of skills and knowledge rather than the traditional time-based model. This framework emphasizes the development of competencies that are essential for success in the modern world, including critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration. The CBE model has been gradually rolled out across Kenya, and these dialogues aim to assess its impact and identify areas for improvement.
Objectives of the County-Based Dialogues
The primary objectives of these county-based dialogues are multifaceted:
- Stakeholder Engagement: To engage all stakeholders in the education sector, including teachers, parents, students, and policymakers, in a comprehensive discussion about the ongoing implementation of CBE.
- Progress Assessment: To evaluate the progress made in the rollout of CBE, highlighting achievements and identifying challenges that need to be addressed.
- Feedback Collection: To gather feedback on the transition guidelines and other aspects of CBE implementation, ensuring that the voices of all stakeholders are heard.
- Teacher Recruitment and Training: To discuss strategies for recruiting and training teachers who are equipped to deliver CBE effectively.
- Continuous Improvement: To ensure that the education system remains dynamic and responsive to the needs of students and the demands of the modern world.
The National Launch
The national launch of the dialogues, held on March 7th, 2025, at Peoples Park in Machakos County, was a significant event attended by key figures in the education sector. Cabinet Secretary for Education Julius Migos emphasized the importance of these dialogues in shaping the future of education in Kenya. He highlighted the government’s commitment to ensuring that every child has access to quality education that prepares them for the challenges of the 21st century.
