Cyprian Nyakundi has been alerted, by a parent, about a class Six book teaching about drugs and drug trafficking, gambling and casinos, alcohol and bars, beaches and vices, escorts, side hustles and prostitution. After verifying, we confirmed that the book was indeed carrying the content.
This is after many Kenyans complained on social media pertaining to books that have content not fit for the young ones.
In October this year, the Jomo Kenyatta Foundation recalled its Grade Two English textbook following criticism over questionable content, as pressure mounted on the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) to enhance its vetting. We had exposed the books and questioned its quality on social media.
The controversial pages that we had shared contained text and an illustration, where the topic is an MP’s helicopter landing in a school.
“The helicopter landed at our school playground. Three big cars arrived in our compound. They, too, belonged to him. He came out and greeted us. His wife waved at us. She had golden rings in her hand. He told us that if we do well he will give us a treat. He will lift us up in the skies. I will try my best,” reads part of the text.
Commentators wondered why children should be made to idolise politicians’ showmanship so early in their lives.
Another page in the text asks about the functions of a head. The answer given in the book states that the head is for carrying loads.
We have attached the section of the books focussing much on sex, drugs, prostitution and other issues we feel are not fit.
Parents were asked to buy the book called HILA, according to the letter to parents and guardians.