Kenya’s presidential candidate Fred Matiang’i has raised concerns about the potential consequences of mismanaging the transition to the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). Speaking on a local radio station on September 2, 2026, Matiang’i warned that the government risks losing an entire generation if it fails to address challenges in the education sector. He emphasized that the State Department for Basic Education must prioritize effective implementation of the CBC to avoid long-term setbacks.
Matiang’i highlighted that the shift to the CBC requires careful planning and adequate resources. He pointed out that without proper support, the reform could lead to a decline in educational quality and student outcomes. The CBC, introduced to move away from traditional exam-based learning, aims to develop practical skills and critical thinking. However, its success depends on teacher training, infrastructure, and policy consistency.
The warning comes amid ongoing debates about the effectiveness of the CBC in Kenya’s schools. While some educators support the reform, others argue that it has not yet delivered the promised improvements. Matiang’i’s remarks underscore the political and social stakes of the education sector, which remains a key issue in the upcoming presidential election.
