Nurturing Competitive CBC Learners For a Bright Future
By Dr. Paul Wanjohi, Education Expert
As we bid farewell to the final cohort of KCPE (Kenya Certificate of Primary Education) under the 8-4-4 system, a new educational era is upon us.
The Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) has been rolling out gradually, promising to revolutionize the way we educate our children. While change is often met with mixed feelings, there is no doubt that the CBC presents a unique opportunity for Kenya’s youth to thrive in an ever-evolving world.
One of the key features of the CBC is its emphasis on nurturing well-rounded individuals who are not only academically competent but also equipped with practical skills and a clear sense of purpose. It introduces students to three distinct career pathways, each tailored to their interests and strengths.
Arts a s Sports Pathway:
Under the CBC, the Arts and Sports pathway shines a spotlight on creativity and physical prowess. This pathway is a testament to the importance of nurturing talents in music, visual arts, drama, dance, and sports. Students here delve into subjects that foster artistic expression and physical development. They learn teamwork, discipline, and the importance of physical fitness.
The relevance of this pathway cannot be overstated. In a world where creativity is a driving force behind innovation and where the sports industry offers countless opportunities, the Arts and Sports pathway prepares learners to excel in these domains. Graduates may choose careers as professional artists, musicians, actors, athletes, coaches, physical education instructors, or sports administrators.
It celebrates diversity and acknowledges that not all students follow the same path to success.
Technical and Vocational Pathway:
The CBC’s Technical and Vocational pathway is a nod to the demand for skilled workers in various industries. This pathway equips students with practical skills and knowledge directly applicable to the workforce. Subjects like carpentry, plumbing, electrical installation, automotive engineering, hospitality, and entrepreneurship provide hands-on experience and technical expertise.
The importance of this pathway is crystal clear as it empowers students to address skills gaps and even embark on entrepreneurial journeys. Graduates are well-prepared for careers as skilled artisans, technicians, entrepreneurs, mechanics, electricians, chefs, and more. It fosters self-reliance and contributes to the economy by producing individuals who can fill crucial roles in various sectors.
Science, Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Pathway:
In a world increasingly shaped by technology and scientific advancements, the CBC’s STEM pathway is a beacon of progress. This pathway nurtures students’ interests in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. It prepares them for careers that drive innovation and technological breakthroughs.
Subjects like mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, computer science, and engineering-related courses instill critical thinking, problem-solving, scientific inquiry, and digital literacy. Graduates from this pathway can become engineers, scientists, mathematicians, computer programmers, researchers, healthcare professionals, and more. They are the future innovators who will tackle global challenges and drive economic growth.
The significance of the CBC’s three career pathways cannot be overstated. They provide students with a diverse range of options to explore their interests and passions, ensuring that their educational journey is not just about academic excellence but also about self-discovery. However, for this transformative curriculum to fulfill its promise, it requires the commitment and involvement of all stakeholders.
Parents, educators, policymakers, and the community at large must come together to support CBC learners.
We must ensure that learners are well-founded in their chosen pathways, equipped with the necessary skills, and guided towards fulfilling careers. This involves fostering an environment where learners can make informed decisions about their future.
As we say goodbye to the 8-4-4 system, let us welcome the CBC with open arms and a shared commitment to nurturing competitive learners. Together, we can ensure that our youth are well-prepared to thrive in the senior school and beyond, contributing to the growth and prosperity of our nation. The future is bright for CBC learners, and it is up to us, the stakeholders, to help them shine.
@paulwanjohi63@gmail.com
Director, Sharp Education Centre &Junior School Embakasi
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