Gov't under pressure as schools brace for Senior Secondary transition in 2026

More than 1.2 million learners are set to transition into senior secondary schools in January 2026, in what will be the first large-scale rollout of the Competency-Based Education (CBE) system.

With just three months to go, concerns are growing over the preparedness of public institutions to accommodate the historic shift.

Despite government assurances, many public schools remain ill-equipped, with significant gaps in infrastructure, learning facilities, and trained personnel.

Laboratories, workshops, and digital learning resources—considered essential for the new curriculum—are still lacking in most institutions, sparking fears that the quality of education could be compromised.

In contrast, private schools appear to be making more rapid progress. Many are racing to complete construction projects and install the required facilities ahead of the January deadline, raising concerns that disparities between private and public education could deepen.

Education stakeholders have called on the government to step up efforts to level the playing field. “Unless both public and private institutions are equally prepared, we risk entrenching inequality in access to quality education,” said David Kariuki, Chief Principal at Merishaw School.

Teachers, however, remain cautiously optimistic. They argue that the new system, with its emphasis on problem-solving, real-world application, and competency mastery, has the potential to transform Kenya’s education landscape.

“The approach will produce graduates who are adaptable, confident, and better aligned to the demands of the job market,” said teachers Immaculate Mwende and Moses Otenyo.

Learners themselves have expressed enthusiasm for the transition, particularly the introduction of digital tools such as tablets and computers. They believe the exposure will equip them with essential skills to thrive in an increasingly digital economy.