This archive report was first published on 22 September 2021.
On September 22, 2021, Education Cabinet Secretary George Magoha made headlines when he declared his readiness to defend the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) in court.
Speaking in Kilifi during a ceremony to award winners of a national primary school essay writing competition, Prof Magoha emphasized the positive impact of the new system on learners.
“Take me to court, you will meet me there, but I can assure you that I will defend it,” he said, in a bold statement that reflects his confidence in the CBC.
Magoha acknowledged that the system is not without its challenges, but he is optimistic that it will be reviewed and improved next year.
He also addressed claims that parents of CBC learners must be literate, saying that this is not a requirement. In fact, he believes that parents at home are the greatest teachers, and that his own mother, who did not attend school, played a significant role in his education.
Prof Magoha emphasized that the CBC is a practical system that aims to equip learners with the necessary skills based on their talents. He believes that every child is intelligent, and that the CBC is designed to identify and nurture their unique talents.
“Some learners will become industrialists as they learn how to do things. What is wrong if children learn how to make ice cream? The concept is to identify different talents in children,” he stated.
Magoha also announced that the government will roll out CBC for Grade 6 next year, as part of its efforts to implement the new system nationwide.
